MUKAGE

Posting the Ki-Seto chawan up the other day by Tsukigata Nahiko reminded me that I was sent a picture of a large scroll by the artist potter a few months back and decided to share it. What is immediately clear from this illustration is the sheer power and exuberance on display in these two challenging and contemplative characters; MU and KAGE which has been rendered in dense, thick jet black ink in what appears to be a rather spontaneous and explosive manner. I think it is safe to say that be it pottery, ink painting, oil painting or sculpting there is rarely anything timid about either the process or finished object or artwork. This bold calligraphy is mounted in a wonderfully complimentary scroll mounting which is typical of Tsukigata making aesthetic choices regarding everything from his painting's frames to the silk shifuku bags and boxes that accompany his pottery. Though I always consider Tsukigata Nahiko a pioneer who considered the big picture it is clear he thought and worked just outside the box and always contemplated the small details that make for an outstanding presentation.

Now that the weekends is here and you may be looking for something to watch, here is an insight into one of our most cherished childhood memories;