Yasuo Kuniyoshi (American, 1893-1953) “Vase with flower” 17”x 14” Oil on canvas Painted in 1918 COA by B. Usui Yasuo Kuniyoshi (Kuniyoshi Yasuo, 1 September 1893 – 14 May 1953) was an American painter, photographer and printmaker. Kuniyoshi was born in Okayama, Japan in 1893.  He migrated to America in 1906, choosing not to attend military school in Japan.  Kuniyoshi originally intended to study English and return to Japan to work as a translator. He spent some time in Seattle, before enrolling at the Los Angeles School of Art and Design.  Kuniyoshi spent three years in Los Angeles, discovering his love for the arts. He then moved to New York City to pursue an art career. Kuniyoshi studied briefly at the National Academy and at the Independent School in New York City, and then studied under Kenneth Hayes Miller at the Art Students League of New York.  He later taught at the Art Students League of New York in New York City and in Woodstock, New York. Nan Lurie was among his students, as was Irene Krugman.  Around 1930, the artist built a home and studio on Ohayo Mountain Road in Woodstock. He was an active member of the artistic community there for the rest of his life.