April 4, 2025 | Sarasota
On the other side of the world lies Japan, a country whose culture is, in many ways, the opposite of America’s. Japanese society often prioritizes the needs and well-being of the group over individual desires, valuing a strong work ethic and commitment to long-term goals. Respect for nature is deeply ingrained and unparalleled.
Japanese culture has long intrigued Western observers. Roughly the size of California, this remarkable country and its 130 million inhabitants have managed to preserve their cultural identity amid the rapid advancements of smartphones and bullet trains. Japan is a rich tapestry woven from ancient traditions, modern innovations, and a deep emphasis on harmony, respect, and collectivism—encompassing everything from tea ceremonies and samurai heritage to anime and cutting-edge technology.
The works of renowned artists like Van Gogh, Whistler, Manet, and Breitner led me to create my own interpretation of Japonism—an artistic movement that emerged over a century ago when Japan opened itself to Western culture. Its vastly different values fascinated European and American artists, inspiring them to paint women in silk kimonos adorned with intricate, nature-themed embroidery.
One of Japan’s expressions of respect for nature is the tea ceremony—a ritualistic practice emphasizing mindfulness, reverence, and appreciation for the natural world. While sitting in my yard in Nokomis, I painted a couple of plein air oil pieces of tropical plants, knowing I would miss the lush abundance of the foliage. I wanted to carry it with me in my heart and remember the movement of my brushstrokes.
The result will be seen in Art Ovation next month.
Art Ovation Hotel, 1255 N. Palm Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34236 · (941) 316-0808
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