HIROKI KAWANABE
b. 1983, JapanHiroki Kawanabe is a self-taught artist who findsbeauty in simplicity. His work is a reflection of hisprinciples in life and his connection to the world,with each brushstroke and choice of colour beingan unrepeatable “miracle” or expression of his be-ing. Kawanabe believes in never revising his work,allowing imperfections to stand as a testament tothe uniqueness of each creation he makes, in linewith the Japanese concept of “En” or “Ichi-go-ichi-e”. He approaches his art with reverence, hebelieves that every encounter with his canvas is aunique and unrepeatable miracle.
Kawanabe draws inspiration from traditional Japa-nese culture, including ukiyo-e techniques, haikupoetry, zen philosophy and more. He lives by thephilosophy of “Let things be as they are”, valuingauthenticity, stillness and self-acceptance in bothart and life. Most of his works are inspired by hissurroundings, embodying the idea that living lifeabundantly and beautifully is rooted in simplicity.The artist uses an iPhone camera to capture scenesfrom his neighbourhood, and his work reflects thesimplicity of his surroundings. His paintings reflecthis humble existence, inviting viewers to persona-lly engage with his art and appreciate their ownunique perspectives and emotions. “How does itlook to you? How does it make you feel?
“In Kawanabe’s world, art is as it is, and the act ofviewing it is a unique and personal experience.
He hopes that viewers will look at his art, embracethe truth of each painting and find their own mea-ningful connections.
Text courtesy Alzueta Gallery.
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