Uemae was one of the earliest participants of the “Gutai” group while it was active. The charm of Uemae’s works comes from their elaborate materials and introspective spirit. The artist first experienced various job fields, working as a crane operator and an apprentice at a traditional dyeing factory in Kyoto. Uemae then taught himself Chinese “Nan-ga” painting before shifting to oil painting. His wide-ranging creations, from two-dimensional works composed of patterns achieved by knife painting or intricate stitching to sculptural works made of wood or sawdust, come from the broad experience he gained during his adolescence. In 1953, Uemae met Yoshihara, and, since then, the artist took part in every “Gutai” exhibition until its dissolution.