The World of New Expressions Woven by the Beauty of Japanese Tradition
The fusion of calligraphy, indigo from Tokushima, and the beloved traditional lacquerware of Japan has brought forth a new form of art. Using "漂"（hanada）, a high-quality natural indigo from Tokushima, and Japan's treasured lacquer, this collection of works embodies the harmony of tradition and modernity. The deep shades of indigo and the distinctive sheen of lacquer are seamlessly woven into traditional calligraphic techniques, capturing the essence of Japanese beauty. The warmth of natural indigo and the lustrous glow of lacquer unite to create a new expression of art.
This fresh artistic vision is born from a rich blend of human connection, physical form, and emotional depth. The pieces transcend mere characters or words, exploring the meaning of the character "人" (person), as well as the emotions and thoughts felt through the body. These works express those moments when emotions and hidden feelings within the heart intersect.
Through these pieces, the profound depths of the heart, before the formation of words or characters, are vividly portrayed.
From December 9, 2024, to February 9, 2025, these captivating works will be on display at Ginza Komatsu-an Sohonke. We invite you to witness this new form of "和" (Japanese harmony), a timeless beauty that bridges the past and the present.
"書道" (Japanese Calligraphy), "藍" (indigo dye), and "漆" (lacquer) have long adorned Japanese spaces, embodying the essence of its traditions. By delving deeply into the unique beauty of each element and allowing their distinct characteristics to resonate with one another, we have blended strength and flexibility to create a new form of tradition. The result is a series of artworks that seamlessly fit into modern spaces.
書道 / Shodo
It is a traditional Japanese art form that uses the ancient tools of brush and ink to express characters artistically. The gradation of the ink and the quality of the brushstrokes convey both strength and elegance.
藍 / Ai
This technique, commonly known as 'Japan Blue,' has long been cherished in Japan and is primarily made from the leaves of the plant called 'tade' (Japanese indigo). The indigo used in calligraphy is produced differently from dye, serving as a pigment rather than ink. This pigment is utilized in calligraphy works or mixed with lacquer, expanding the new possibilities of indigo in artistic expression.
漆 / Urushi
Lacquer is derived from the sap of the lacquer tree, either in its raw form or after refinement. It has been used as a coating and adhesive since the Jomon period, making it Japan's oldest natural paint. Lacquered wooden vessels have been part of daily life for centuries. In this series of works, the 'fuki-urushi' (wiped lacquer) technique is employed, adding depth and luster to the calligraphy.
Drawing characters like a painting, this work is rooted in the classical study of calligraphy that has been passed down through generations. It pursues the expression of characters as something to be viewed and felt. Utilizing the creator's background as a former designer and fine arts graduate, the artworks are known for their distinctive world of composition, negative space, and unique brush strokes. The pieces extend beyond mere calligraphy; through the artist's experience in design, they are exhibited with careful attention to framing and display, creating a cohesive spatial experience. The solo exhibition 'Kotobabako' (Word Box) was highly acclaimed not only in the calligraphy community but also in the art world, celebrated as 'calm yet powerful,' and recognized as part of the artist's signature 'Garan World.' In recent years, there has been increased collaboration with painters and sculptors, presenting works that go beyond readable text, treating each stroke as a living line.
Greetings
I am pleased to announce my second solo exhibition. Since this is a place where many people will gather and enjoy, I wanted to focus on the theme of 'people' this time. People are constantly thinking, feeling, and turning those thoughts into words in their minds. I have expressed these fragments of thoughts and emotions as 'visible poetry,' capturing the essence of humanity itself. Many of the works in 'visible poetry' incorporate indigo and lacquer, whose unique colors bring a depth and luster that add even more dimension to the pieces. As the artworks reveal different expressions depending on the angle and time of viewing, I hope you will visit in person to experience these changes and the profoundness they offer.
| Event | TheGaze 〜視座〜 |
|---|---|
| Place | Ginza Komatsuan Sohonke [ Official Web ] |
| Date | 2024.12.9(Mon) - 2025.2.9(Sun) |
| Open | 11:00〜22:00 |
| GalleryTime | 16:00〜17:00 |
There is a gallery space within the restaurant. While visitors are welcome to come solely to view the artwork, please note that entry may be restricted if the restaurant is crowded. During the designated gallery hours, the gallery will operate independently, and no food or beverages will be served.