"The Jewelry Box" delves into portraits of women by Western artists influenced by Japanese art. Utilizing AI, it generates oil and Japanese paintings, animated generatively with TouchDesigner. During discussions with √K Contemporary, the question of Japan's identity emerged.
I was born and raised in Tokyo, amidst a blend of Japanese and Western belongings in our cramped apartment. My mother's traditional furniture coexisted with my anime toys. Despite typically wearing Western attire, I cherished the occasions when I adorned a kimono. My childhood affinity for anime characters with Western features underscored my creative pursuits, drawing princesses and characters in ornate dresses. My upbringing fostered a stronger sense of individuality than a strictly Japanese identity.
In creating AI images, I select final renders based on original paintings, akin to drawing anime characters. Commencing my art career with oil paintings, I remain enthralled by AI's textural output and realistic oil painting expressions. The Japanese art that influenced Western artists, with roots in anime and manga, captivated me. The process of observing both original and altered creations is immensely gratifying.
When discussing "Japanese culture," many immediately think of Japanese paintings, anime, and manga-themed artworks. I believe interpretations of Japanese culture vary based on individuals' era, environment, and gender, with each perspective holding validity and significance. Embracing diverse cultures and interpretations, and their evolution, epitomizes Japan's essence.
Credit
Presented by：√K Contemporary
Exhibition display production：NEORT