Size
4ft x 4ft Each
Medium
Mixed-Media
Description
Japanese attitude towards nature is well represented by two master wood-block print artists, Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849) The Great Wave Off Kanagawa, and Ando Hiroshige (1760-1849), Rain at Shōnō, Their art reminds me of a statement about the Japanese culture: one must give up trying to rule nature and instead accept nature’s will.
A deadly 23-foot tsunami struck Japan on March 11, 2011 after an enormous earthquake in the country’s northern region. The tsunami’s powerful force caused an explosion in reactor No. 1 at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station.
My art incorporates my design in the center panel and the works of these two Japanese artists but modified to represent my reflection of this tragic event.
The panels are suspended by wire, free to flow and adjust to the environment much like the trunk-like shinbashira dangling through the central well of the Japanese temples. This design was used for many years to support the temples during earthquakes and so effective that the concept is currently incorporated in many modern structures.
2011
Panel One
This is the first panel in a set of three which depicts the massive Tsunami that struck Japan on 3 -11 -2011.
Original is on birch wood, four feet by four feet, Mixed media: block print, oil paint, ink, magazines.
The large wave has droplets, not of water, but of nuclear material as a result of the tsunami. The figures on the vessels are the brave people who entered the nuclear reactor to attempt to defuse the threat of nuclear destruction of Japan. Some of the figures have haz-vap suits while others are skeletons. This identifies the fact that many who would enter were destined to die. Their lives were given to save Japan.
Panel Two
This is the central panel and original work is on birch wood, four feet by four feet. Oil paint, magazines, ink, printing ink account for the mix media.
The young female figure represents the nation of Japan or Mother Nature. Her red hair is Japan’s rising sun. Tears flow as she is witness to the tragic events unfolding as the result of the 2011 Great Tsunami. The United States had its tragic event on 9 – 11 while Japan had its event on 3 – 11, 2011.
The 23 foot tsunami nearly destroyed Japan when their nuclear reactors were greatly damaged.
The female figure is strong and will bear through the tragedy, she will provide strength and Japan will rise again much like the red rising sun.
Panel Three
This is the third panel and reflects the people of Japan seeking shelter from the Tsunami and the threat of nuclear fallout. The original print flows to thee left. My version flows to the right and a cherry blossom, a major symbol of Japan, is created to represent life.
The tree has life. It bears many flowers and some which have yet to bloom.
This is hope, life, cycle of life.
There will be many tears but Japan’s cherry trees will continue to fill the land with beauty and hope.