Ito Motohiko (b. 1939)'s 'Imaginary View of Mt Tsukuba' flower vessel is a testament to his innovative approach to ceramics. Known for treating his ceramics as a painter would a...
Ito Motohiko (b. 1939)'s "Imaginary View of Mt Tsukuba" flower vessel is a testament to his innovative approach to ceramics. Known for treating his ceramics as a painter would a canvas, he employs the elusive and intricate "Nunome" technique that involves impressing canvas onto the clay surface. This technique infuses his works with a distinctive canvas-like impression on the surface. The resulting texture is not glossy but matte, reminiscent of a painted canvas.
In this serene flower vessel created in 2000, Motohiko draws inspiration from Hokusai's iconic "Views of Mount Fuji" and transposes it into a unique concept, capturing the majesty of another legendary summit, Mt Tsukuba. His artistic vision revolves around those fleeting moments at the break of day and the descent of dusk, infusing his creation with a profound sense of nostalgia and sentiment.
The piece recreates the ever-shifting hues of the sky, juxtaposed against the timeless silhouette of the mountain, creating an almost ethereal watercolor-like effect. With "Imaginary View of Mt Tsukuba" as its title, Motohiko pays homage to the way he recalls gazing at the mountain during his childhood. As such, the image is a product of his imagination, albeit deeply rooted in his personal connection to the real landscape. It's a perceptive piece, resonating not only with the eye but also with the heart, inviting viewers to connect with their own cherished memories of distant horizons and fleeting moments.