In memory of

Hiroshi Yamamoto

December 10, 1948 - February 5, 2024

Toronto-based artist Hiroshi Yamamoto (b. December 10, 1948) passed away peacefully just before sunrise on February 5th, 2024 at Hennick Bridgepoint Hospital with his family by his side. His bright-side attitude to life touched the hearts of many. His use of Nihonga (Japanese traditional painting techniques) and Sumi-e (brush painting) in Canadian landscapes blended his Japanese art practice with his life in Canada.

Hiroshi was the beloved husband of Yumiko and devoted father of Yuki and Ai. He will be deeply missed by his brothers in Japan and cousins in Canada. Hiroshi was a cherished member of the Sumi-e Artists of Canada and dedicated his time as an instructor for cultural classes on Sumi-e at the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre, Nisshu Gakuin Toronto Japanese Language School, and many more.
His work can be found on his website: https://www.hiroshiyamamoto.com/

A Celebration of Life honouring Hiroshi’s memory will take place on Sunday, March 24, 2024, at the JCCC (Kobayashi Hall) at 1:00 pm.

Date: Sunday March 24, 2024
Time: 1:00pm
Location: Kobayashi Hall at thee Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre
Address: 6 Sakura Way (formerly Garamond Court) Toronto, ON. M3C 1Z5. (416) 441-2345

Guestbook

(5 of 6)

John, Kristen, Jamie and Ryuuei Chew (former students and their parents)

Entered February 24, 2024 from Toronto

Mr. Yamamoto was an inspiring role model for our sons when they attended his classes at Nisshu Gakuin. We are very sorry for the family's loss.

Yuko Murakami, Toshio Murakami (Former student at Nisshu-gakuin and his parent)

Entered March 10, 2024 from Toronto

Yamamoto-sensei has been a great support to me and my son at Nisshu Gakuen. I was very much impressed by his gentle manner. We pray for his soul rest in peace.

Mui-Ling Teh (Fellow exhibiting artist and Arts Committee member at the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre)

Entered March 18, 2024 from Toronto

As a respected figure within the Japanese Canadian artistic community, I had encountered Mr. Yamamoto's exquisite creations on several occasions prior to the pandemic. However, it wasn't until 2022 that our paths truly intersected. He was a highlighted artist in the exhibition "Sumi-e: The Way of the Brush" at the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre. It was during this event that I had the privilege of engaging with him personally for the first time, allowing me to learn more about him on a deeper level – including the intriguing detail that he occasionally mixed his ink with milk!

The following year, we both participated in the community showcase "Artsu Matsuri" at the JCCC, where he showed his support by acquiring one of my pieces. A few months later, during Doors Open Toronto, Mr. Yamamoto captivated audiences with his sumi-e demonstrations at the center. It was on this occasion that I acquired one of his paintings, now adorning my bedroom wall as a cherished memento of our encounter. Regrettably, this was the last time I had the pleasure of seeing Mr. Yamamoto.

His passing leaves a profound void in our artistic community. While our interactions were limited, I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to have connected with him during his final years. Mr. Yamamoto will be deeply missed, his legacy enduring through his remarkable artistry and the memories he leaves behind.

Roslyn Levin (fellow sumi-e artist and friend)

Entered March 21, 2024 from Shelburne ON

Hiroshi will remain close to me whenever I pick up a brush and dip it in ink.
He will live on through the work of his many students.
He will live in our hearts, always.

I miss his ready smile and laughter already.

Shinya Kumazawa (Artist Friend)

Entered March 24, 2024 from Toronto

I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Yamamoto-san, a remarkable soul and an inspiration to many, including myself. Yamamoto-san was not just a talented sumie painter but also a gentle and kind-hearted individual whose wisdom and guidance touched the lives of those around him. I remember the first time I attended his exhibition in Toronto after moving from Japan, and it left a lasting impact on me. His paintings, always reflective of his warm and gentle nature, spoke volumes about his character and passion for art.
Our exhibition at the Toronto Art Expo in the early 2000s was a cherished experience, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked alongside such a talented artist. Beyond his artistic talents, Yamamoto-san also shared his knowledge and love for Japanese culture with my family, teaching my daughters Nihon-ga at Nisshu Gakuin and inviting us to participate in cultural events like making mochi at the temple. His dedication to living life as an artist, staying true to his creative vision, and continuing to paint throughout his life is something I deeply admire and respect.
Yamamoto-san's legacy will undoubtedly endure through his beautiful paintings, each one a reflection of his spirit and the love he had for his craft. While we mourn his loss, let us also celebrate the rich life he lived and the profound impact he had on all of us. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and all those who were fortunate enough to know him. May his soul rest in peace, and may his art continue to inspire generations to come.