Ki and Bi series (etching/ mixed media)

    (2008-2011)  Limited edition solarplate etching (Actually not edition but variation intentionally) and unique pieces with mixed media. More images available than showing here.  ::: International Drawing & Printmaking Exhibition.  May 14 – 19, 2010.  Opening reception: 6-9PM on Friday, May 14.  Rogue Space Chelsea 526 W. 26th St. #9E  (bet. 10th & 11th Aves.), New York, NY10001. ------- Solarplate photo etching is very much a physically involved process. As digital photography becomes more prevalent, I found myself craving to do more hands-on prints and create pieces physically. This is also because my art making is linked with a deep exploration of emotions during the process. The combination of both traditional and modern techniques was employed in the series as alternative process.  :::  In Ki and Bi series, a search for harmony in photography and etching, I first created the pieces of mixed media collages on canvas mirroring my own emotions and soul, and then photographed them. I combined a photogram and layered Japanese calligraphy, written by my father, a master of calligraphy in Japan. (Calligraphy is one of the historical means of communication in Japan and takes many years to master although in this modern society, it is no longer common practice.) In the process, I made 8x10 photo positives and etched plate by water. I have been exploring ways of combining traditional calligraphy with my photography partly in order to create new ideas to pass on to the next generation even in a different art form.  It is also creating and transforming to the new images using my point of view. ::: State I: black – “Ki, ” “Bi, ” “Sa, ” each/ edition of 3.State II:  color variation of 6. Unique pieces.   (Ki means hope in Japanese. Or rare.  Bi means beauty. )