About | TBFAS

Gallery Introduction Video

The TUSHA Fine Art Gallery is dedicated to the fine arts and antiques of Hawai’i and Polynesia. With a special focus on mid-century paintings and sculptures, the gallery showcases forms of abstract expressionism which includes works from the Metcalf Chateau, a prominent group of Asian American artists such as Tadashi Sato, Jerry Okimoto, and Satoru Abe.

Tusha Buntin has over 35 years of experience in the fine art business. He’s Studied Asian Art History at the University of Hawaii Manoa with a BA in Art History. Having studied under great teachers such as Tom Klobe, Gallery design and being Gallery Director for 32 years in the family business, Tusha has helped many clients create great spaces for the appreciation of art.

Fluent in Japanese language and culture, Tusha is driven by the enjoyment of Fine Art at it’s best. We hope you will be inspired as well.

My father was a sculptor and an artist and I started watching our antique store at the age of 10 on the Big Island of Hawaii. I grew up in Hawaii and California.

Tragedy turned to a blessing when our buildings burnt to the ground and we moved to Japan.

I was so inspired by traveling to Taiwan and then Japan at the age of 12. Seeing the Emperors Imperial Collection in Taiwan at the National Palace Museum in the late 1970’s was an eye-opening experience, especially during that time in Taiwan, where so much of the collection was on display.

The Tokonoma Arts showcases the Asian collection from China, Japan, and Korea. This includes traditional and contemporary paintings, rare Huanghuali wood furniture, bamboo sculptures, as well as Nihonga school scrolls and screens. A Tokonoma art piece is an excellent addition to any home or space for enjoyment, especially for visiting guests. Embedded in our philosophy and values, we strive to provide the finest pieces as we endeavor to deliver a great impression.

Bamboo Culture in Japan
As featured in Arts of Asia, Spring 2023

This page features the full content of an article written by Tusha Buntin, Director of Tokonoma Arts Gallery, and published in the Spring 2023 issue of Arts of Asia.
Focusing on the tradition and artistry of Japanese bamboo basketry, the article explores the cultural and aesthetic significance of bamboo in Japan.

*The Arts of Asia Spring 2023 issue is available for purchase online.

Please find the complete article.

I took up the martial art of Kendo when I moved to Japan and continue this passion of learning the Japanese and Samurai culture to this day. In fact although I have degrees and studied Asian Art history through the University of Hawaii, it was Kendo that helped me intertwine Art history and Japanese culture.

The histories of Asia, Chinese philosophy, Zen Buddhism and Samurai mindset. Studying the Japanese sword and metalwork is a big part of this. I am a humble 7th Dan in Kendo and 1st Dan in Iaido.

Japanese and Hawaiian paintings have played a central part of my career over the last 20 some odd years and continue to appreciate Nihonga school and Mid Century Modern Hawaiian works. The display rotation and presentation are the focus of this new Gallery.

I’d like to introduce you to one of my favorite Tadashi Sato paintings today. This is a fantastic piece from 1970. And of course, Tadashi Sato was one of Hawaii’s most important abstract expressionist artists.