Each with a singular movement, posture, or stance. Faceless, defined or refined. They are colorful and beautiful, at the same time dreamy and unattainable. I want to focus my eyes and see their blurry faces. To see them, and say “Hello Beautiful”. But their replies would be the same — as silent as the smoke in the mirror.
See more Tomomi Nitta’s work at:
Exhibition View of “Infinite Set 2” at YUKA TSURUNO, Tokyo.
Original scratchboard artwork by RUDY DROGUETT. Titled “Reflection”.
Not transfer print or reproduction.
I like his work very much. Had a chance to see some of his original Phone Book art works, face to face, in Philadelpha, PA. An artist deeply committed to his work. He is also a fierce jazz guitar player.
When I examine a piece of Asian ceramics about its age, one of the things I look for is the scars on the piece. Not really the scratches or chip damages per se, but some kind of evidences which the artists left on the piece — that is to say, his or her life experiences.
I don’t really think young apprentices (unless they are really talented), can imitate or produce something comparable to someone who’s been through life’s trials and tribulations.
A “life scar” remains in a person after great suffering. And through art and its tools, those experiences will surface and translate itself to something quite substantial - as if to say, this is the work by a genuine person - and not just by someone who perfected their techniques. What does one call that process? A style? An inspiration? Or a creative moment? I don’t know. What I do see is that among countless Chinese artists and potters, there were and still are a few brave soul who allowed their life scars and inner strength to come forward… so that when one looks and touches their artwork (or ceramic in this case), the observer will asks “How did he do that?”… or “Wow, that was really something” etc.
Sample micro/miniature writings by Tamura Kinsei 田村金星 (1896-1987), on vintage Kutani cup. Most likely his early works. His more mature calligraphy works are in cursive form.
