Artistic Tribute

A collection of works by Southwest Florida artist Ikki Matsumoto

Ikki Matsumoto often looked to the native birds of Sanibel Island for artistic inspiration. Sandpipers, anhingas and herons made their way into his artwork. Fine details and just a soft touch of color enhanced the birds’ feathers, beaks and surroundings. Whether on canvas or in a print, Matsumoto’s art captured the flora, fauna and soul of Sanibel.

The limited edition Captivated, The Art of Ikki

Matsumoto features a wide selection of the artist’s work. His sandpiper series, silkscreen prints and large format acrylic paintings, as well as images from private collections that have not been seen by the public, grace the pages. An extensive collection of memorabilia and cherished family photos that tell the story of Matsumoto’s life add to the appeal of this hardcover coffee-table art book.

Matsumoto’s career began when, as a 20-year-old student, he arrived from Japan to study at the John Herron School of Art in Indianapolis.

Over his lifetime, he produced designs, paintings and prints that defined his style. In 1975 he established himself on Sanibel, opened a gallery and resided most of his years on the island until he passed away in 2013.

Two years ago, the artist’s daughter, Amy Matsumoto Urich, and his wife, Polly, asked themselves, “Why hasn’t anyone done an Ikki book?” Together with creative director Steve Saari, the three started work on the project. Urich promised her mom, who has since passed, that the book would get done. “It was my promise to her,” says Urich. And this fall 1,000 copies of the larger format, 12-inch by 10.5-inch, collectible book will be available. Another 78 copies (7 and

8 are the two luckiest numbers in Japanese culture) of

Captivated will be offered in a custom hardcover clamshell case and include a rare Ikki print, as well as an invitation to the private prelaunch book party.

The art book can be preordered at ikkimatsumoto.com.