J apanese Art has been influenced by the invasion of new and alien ideas that get absorbed, imitated and finally, assimilated. The earliest complex art came out of the 7th an 8th centuries. This early art was strongly influenced by Buddhism. In the 9th century Japanese artists turned away from China's influence to develop more native forms.
Painting is the preferred art form in Japan.
This follows from the use of brushes for writing which created a familiarity with brush technique. Besides paintings there are sculpture with theme largely associated with religion, and ceramics that are considered to be among the finest in the world. Japanese painting was introduced to western influence in the 1870's from Italian artists. At the same time Japanese artists retain traditional themes and techniques. In the later half of the 19th century, Japanese art, which is valued for its simplicity and colorful style, had an impact on other western forms of art.