The Japanese Friendship Garden (JFG) presents an exhibition of Japanese multimedia by Osaka born artist Junko Iwasa.

Location: Upper Garden Exhibit Hall

(Hours subject to change during special events. Refer to niwa.org)

Junko Iwasa Gallery Talk

November 11th: 1:00pm-1:30pm (Include with admission)

Junko Iwasa

“Enso, (circular form) is a Zen calligraphic form that symbolically expresses enlightenment, truth, and spiritual fulfillment as a round shape that represents eternity, a continuum without beginning or end. I was inspired by the sensibility of those who believed that the universe was a circular system, I use a variety of materials to express the all-encompassing power, peace, abundance, gentleness, and softness of the circle.

When I first started working, I was fascinated by the textures and graffiti on the walls of New York City, and I painted aspects of those walls in traditional Japanese painting. Later, I developed the technique of matiere (expression of materials) and began to pursue the expression of the receptiveness and warmth of nature by handcrafted paper, pulp, and wood powder, and coloring with ink, shell powder, rock paint, acrylic paint, gold and silver leaf, and other materials.

The works, composed of small pieces of different sizes, shapes, and materials, each have their own individuality, but when gathered together, they create harmony by respecting each other. I hope that this is also true of the complex social structures and living environments that surround us!”