Andō Hiroshige was born Tokutaro Ando in Edo (now Tōkyō ) in 1797. In his early teens he entered the leading print studio, the Utagawa. He was given the name Hiroshige soon after, and eventually granted the right to use the Utagawa name, which is why he is also referred to as Utagawa Hiroshige.

Chris Burden's sculptures, performances, and installations redefine stereotypical classifications of art. His work, often bound to his quest to understand violence and power, pushes the boundaries of subject matter and execution.

Taoism was founded in China by Lao-Tzu in the 6th-century BCE. Characterized by a concentration on nature and the forces of the universe, Taoism calls for living one’s life in harmony with the Tao, or Way, which is the predesigned and ultimately correct path for followers of Taoism. Taoism’s followers believe one should lead a life of non-action and serve one's role as a part of the design of the universe, free of personal ambitions and desires, to achieve harmony.

Shinto is a native religion of Japan that predates the introduction of Buddhism.

Confucianism honors the great Chinese sage Confucius, who lived from 479 to 351 BCE. His philosophy focused on proper ethical behavior, such as respect for parents and people in authority, proper conduct, and the performance of social obligations.

Scale refers to the relative or proportional size of depicted figures or objects.

From "Seeing Contemporary Art" gallery brochure (c. 1995), located in education files