Munakata is known as one of the most significant artists in modern times within the Sosaku-hanga movement and a strong influence on mingei or folk art. His woodcuts are characterised by unique, bold outlines predominantly in black and white, often with expressive spiritual or religious Buddhist-based themes. The Hawk Woman is one of his famous prints which is in the permanent collection of the Art Institute of Chicago. Munakata was awarded Japan's Order of Culture, the highest award for an artist granted by the Japanese Government.