For Fukushima - Hannya-shingyo II

Medium: Oil painting on handmade Mitsumata paper
Dimensions: 13 x 18 inches (image / sheet)
Signature: Signed
Artist details: Japanese, 1950
Date finished: 2016

Recommended by Paige (Collections Manager / Marketing Coordinator):

Lately, I have been reflecting on art's place in the face of tragedy, of war, and of suffering. This piece, 'For Fukushima - Hannya-shingyo II', has always struck me visually, but it has captured my mind especially in this context. Hiroshima beautifully understands art as remembrance, art as witness, art as prayer. The artist's hands are felt in the texture of the handmade paper, in each layer of color applied, in each stroke of calligraphy. The language speaks of wisdom and in deep red, it is powerful but not forceful. The mountains are dark but they touch a bright sky. This piece naturally inspires honest reflection.