Christine Flint Sato’s wonderful contributions to Japan are beyond words.
She introduces the charm of Nara’s traditional industries of Sumi ink, washi paper, and brushes to many Japanese people as well as people overseas through her art.
Not only her artworks but also the workshops she holds are not just about the use of materials and tools, but are deeply connected to the spirituality of Japanese tradition.
Her activities and endeavors convey the importance of mindfulness as an opportunity to look at oneself, which is needed not only in modern Japanese people but also in people all over the world.
The appeal of her work, as I feel, is that she understands the traditional use of Sumi ink and brush techniques such as Chinese and Japanese calligraphy and Sumi-e, and is always challenging herself to try new things.
Her Sumi expressions use a variety of materials, her transition from the monochrome expression of ink to more dynamic expressions incorporating color, and her challenge to go from colorful works to works that use natural mud to create works with depth.
When you look at each of her works, you can sense her outstanding brush skills and her deep understanding and determination to express the unique characteristics of the materials.
Points, lines, and surfaces expressed from controlled forms and natural movements. Delicate lines drawn in detail with paper, water, ink, and brushes, and the enjoyment of chance. There is a sense of play with “Ma” and her reception of natural phenomena.
The variety of her works is an abstract expression of the pleasantness of impressionism, and many of them invite spiritual pleasure.
DWS Gallery planned and held an exhibition of her work in collaboration with traditional mounters. Naturally, her work was enjoyed by many people, but the biggest benefit was that it sparked interest in mounters, who had previously gone unnoticed, as a new form of artistic expression. Even now, we continue to try to express her works using traditional mounting.
As her home gallery, we are always looking forward to her new challenges.
Hiro Minato Director DWS Gallery,Nara
