Kenro Izu: Mono no Aware
“Art and life are intertwined for me and my thoughts have often turned to the notion of beauty as understood in both Western and Japanese contexts. Encounters with Noh masks sparked a deep curiosity in their human expressions, a fascination that intensified with time. The gaze of the masks seemed to penetrate one’s inner being, reminding me that to observe is also to be observed,” states Izu. “My exploration of Noh extended to its origins, rooted in Shinto traditions and the Jinja shrines of Japan. I was drawn particularly to shrine forests, where sacred trees, rocks, and dense spiritual groves evoke a sense of timelessness. During the COVID-19 lockdown, my focus shifted to nearby subjects—wildflowers and grasses arranged in clay vases made from locally sourced materials. The fleeting beauty of their unnoticed bloom and decay resonated deeply with me. I continue to be reminded of how daily life and environment shape artistic creation.”