MUSUBU

The Japanese Friendship Garden Society of San Diego is thrilled to host Musubu featuring the eclectic and elegant works of four up-and-coming Japanese artists: Eiko Kita, Chiyoko Kumon, Toshio Rokusawa and Masao Watanabe. This exhibit will be their first debut collaboration in the United States.
 
Musubu in Japanese means “to tie,” but it can also mean “to connect.” The artists’ designs embody this word through their use of integrated material and through the relationships that are formed through their artwork. Their mission is to create works of art that are not only cohesive in material and form, but that also evoke understanding and friendship amongst people of different backgrounds and nationalities.
 
Each artist will be displaying their distinct collection composed of their material of choice. Eiko Kita will be showcasing her talents in glass making with her colorful miniature vases intended to blend with its displayed environment. Chiyoko Kumon will be presenting her collection of Saki-Ori fabric art, which uses recycled fabric to form rustic and compelling works of art. Toshio Rokusawa strives to imitate nature’s splendor, which is often fleeting and difficult to capture through his eloquent use of wood work. Lastly, Masao Watanabe will be exhibiting two types of collections. The first being an array of wooden “mosaic” figurines depicting Japanese holiday themes. His second collection titled, “Mokushoga” uses dry wall material to create oil painting-like depictions. Though each artist has their unique style, they want to encourage their viewers to look at their artwork carefully and to find the subtle hints of Japanese expression and beauty hidden in each piece.
 
Join us for the debut of Musubu and witness the modern and eloquent craftsmanship of up-and-coming artist in Japan!