Tamotsu, Chūzō, 1888-1975

Chuzo Tamotsu was born Febraury 19, 1891 in the Japanese village of Toguchi. He studied painting, both traditional Japanese and Western styles, under private tutors. He arrived in New York in 1920 and worked in a variety of two-dimensional media. From 1932-1938, Tamotsu worked on WPA (Works Progress Administration) Commissions. During World War II, he served the U.S. Army as a combat sketch artist. He became a founding member of the New York Artists' Equity Association in 1947. Tamotsu moved to Santa Fe, New Mexico in the late 1940's where he continued to work as an artist as well as a member of the Alliance for the Arts. In 1953, he organized an art works exchange between New Mexican and Japanese primary school children. He also helped pass legislation for the formation of the New Mexico Arts Commission. In 1974 he converted his studio into the "Tamotsu Gallery" where he exhibited his works. Chuzo Tamotsu continued painting until he passed away in Santa Fe in 1975.

From the guide to the Chuzo Tamotsu Pictorial Collection, 1931-1993, (University of New Mexico Center for Southwest Research)

Painter; Santa Fe, N.M.

Born in Japan. Came to U.S. in 1920. Moved to Santa Fe in 1948. Birthdate also listed as 1888.

From the description of Chuzo Tamotzu papers, 1920-1982. (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 79631941