Complimentary Remark

If my memory is correct, my first meeting with Mr. Iwaya took place in 1979. Our relationship has since developed into a close one, aided especially by the coincidence that we were both natives of the same prefecture in Japan. And up to present, I have been responsible for holding several exhibitions of his prints in Tokyo and Osaka, and introducing Toru Iwaya's world of maniere noirs.

Mr. Iwaya is a consummate learner and a theoretician as well. He never gives way easily to any compromise; maybe to the point of stubbornness which works at times to his disadvantage. But nonetheless, I cannot help but admire his wide knowledge in diverse subject matters. His creative approach and devotion to maniere noire, without a thing of idleness, are reflected vividly in his recent substantial works of the Noh Seriess.

I am filled with deep emotion to witness the publication of a book featuring his mezzotints on the occasion of the completion of 100 works.

I wish to conclude by expressing my sincere hope for his continuous devotion to this art form in the future.

July, 1991

Oscar Art Co., Ltd

President Masami Ono