Tap on the photo of pieces with an asterisk in the title to see other photos of the same piece. Then tap < in the Title Bar of your browser to return to the Gallery.
Kumiko is a Japanese traditional craft that has been used for centuries to diffuse interior light through room screens, doors, transoms and other architectural and furniture forms. It has evolved to include ornamental elements in boxes, lighting, wall panels and other art forms.
Wall Panels and Boxes (2019)
The frame for the diamond grid pattern with a red background (29″ x 39″) is made of cherry and basswood.
The two wall panels are made of basswood and walnut ( 16 1/2” x 16 1/2” x 15/16” and 6 1/2“ x 6 1/2” x 7/8”).
One box (7 1/2” x 7 1/2” x 5”) is made of basswood and cherry and the other three (~7” x ~ 7” x 4” are basswood and spalted maple. All but one features the hemp leaf (Asa-no-ha) in a square pattern. The maple box second from the left is a variation of that pattern.
Studies for a Gothic Window (2019)
Both shoji and cathedral windows diffuse sunlight to create interior light conducive to the architectural functions of the spaces they enclose. In this respect, silk and rice paper perform similar functions to clear and stained glass. The kumiko shapes can allude to symbolic meanings in Japanese culture as the forms and shapes in cathedral windows allude to symbolic and theological meanings in Christian spirituality. Creating frames of Gothic window shape with modified kumiko lattice patterns on black paperboard can create a space of meaning in which both traditions are activated for visual interest and contemplation. The following pieces are initial explorations and feasibility studies for Sacred Geometry 2020. The piece on the left is made of basswood, cherry and mirror (8 3/4″ x 19 3/4” x 1 1/4”) and the piece on the right is made of basswood, walnut and paperboard (1 18″ x 18” x 2 1/4”)
Sacred Geometry 2020 (2020)
Christian and Islamic artists aspired to enable the True to shine through the Beautiful. Using the traditional Japanese craft of kumiko, Sacred Geometry 2020 challenges viewers to contemplate the prospects for enlightenment in their own search for beauty and truth. Click on photo to see close-up views.
Basswood, white oak and foam board. 62“ x 20” x 2”.
Studies for Conjunctio (2022)
Walnut and basswood. 5/16″ x 13 1/2″ x 13 1/2″
Conjunctio (2022)*
In alchemy, conjunctio refers to the unification of opposites in both the purification and mastery of the prima materia and a person’s spiritual essence, the ultimate goal of the alchemist’s work. In Jungian psychology, it refers to the achievement of individuation, a state where all elements of a person’s psyche are successfully integrated. Conjunctio explores the unification of opposites within the material, patterns and process of kumiko, paying homage to the magnificence of the tree and how it unifies so many elements of its form and nature as a living entity.
Walnut & Basswood. 5/16″ x 43″ x 43″.
Study for Encounter (2023)
Cherry and basswood, 7/16″ x 24″ x 14″.
All photographs by the artist.