The Nippon Gallery will exhibit the work of Japanese paper cutout artist Shu Kobo. Mr. Kubo is well regarded amongst Japan’s modern art scene and his work has appeared on postage stamps and on New Year’s greeting cards in Japan.
Kubo creates the paper cutouts using handmade Japanese washi paper, which he has dyed a variety of colors. He approaches the paper sheet by sheet, creating a two dimensional work by precisely cutting fine lines with a knife. Kubo has recently expanded his techniques by combining washi with Western paper materials, resulting in quite remarkable three-dimension works. Also, by layering multiple layers of ultra-thin washi, an original color scheme is developed adding texture and flair to the subject.
The themes explored in Kubo’s work are largely ‘Japonism on Paper.’ He captures the dynamics of the seasonal traditions of Japanese life and food in a fresh and beautiful new way. His work has gained a wide appreciation among the Japanese, especially with children.