Cherry Blossoms on Greenwich Village in NYC
Come spring, you'll notice that there are many cherry blossom trees in New York City besides Central Park. For Japanese people, cherry blossoms are very special flowers, so seeing them in bloom brings great joy.
In Japanese culture, appreciating the four seasons is important, and flowers and plants have been used as motifs in arts and crafts. Cherry blossom is one of the typical motifs, and the arts and crafts with a cherry blossom pattern can be seen around this season to enjoy the springtime. The motif of the four seasons evokes the beauty of nature and enriches our minds.
Last month, during Asia Week, I visited the IPPODO Gallery on the Upper East Side and saw some stunning artworks created by a young and talented Japanese artist, Terumasa Ikeda. He specializes in raden (螺鈿), a Japanese traditional method of inserting a cut-out piece of mother of pearl into the carved surface of urushi lacquer or wood.
What surprised me was that Ikeda uses computer screens and digital signals as motifs for his works. He explained that he grew up playing internet games and wants to express things that can only be represented in this era. He believes that the symbol of this era's power is the information technology and science, and he wants to capture what he finds beautiful. I was impressed by Ikeda's unique approach to traditional Japanese art.
“Labyrinth” Incense Container by Terumasa Ikeda
If you look at these works in the future, they may be an important factor in understanding what is happening in this era. Before the internet existed, these works could not exist.
His work made me think about many things. I could not imagine that technology could develop to the point where humans could be overtaken by AI, but now it seems very real.
I feel that the world is evolving at a tremendous speed these days, but no matter how much technology progresses, I do not want to forget the spirit of enjoying the changing seasons.
Japanese culture is very important to me because it reminds me that humans should live in harmony with nature and appreciate its beauty. Cherry blossoms, in particular, teach us the beauty of spring and its fleeting nature, and that we must enjoy the moment. I think that sensitivity is a pleasure as a human being, so I am continuing to share the story of Japanese culture. Please enjoy the beautiful spring.
PS Terumasa Ikeda’s exhibition is being held tomorrow at Ippodo Gallery, April 20, 2023