Ogawa Usen, an esteemed Nihonga artist, was often referred to as "Usen of Kappa" due to his lifelong focus on painting kappas, a water yokai (mythical creature). Active from the Meiji to Showa periods, he spent most of his life in Ushiku, Ibaraki Prefecture. While working as a farmer, he painted rural life and mythical creatures with a deep appreciation for Eastern classics. His works, depicting kappas and other yokais playing in nature, are characterized by their simplicity and gentle perspective.

This particular piece captures Usen's free-spirited and humorous nature. The kappa, swimming with a determined expression, invites viewers to ponder its destination. Why not take a moment from the heat of summer, to reflect on where the kappa heads in the cool waters?