Kumi Machida "Stories from a Cold Country" at Nishimura Gallery

“Calm” by Kumi machida
sumi(blue), sumi(brown), mineral pigments, and pencil on kumohada linen paper, 100 x 80.3cm

We would like to introduce the exhibition “Stories from a Cold Country” held at Nishimura Gallery from Dec14, 2010 through Feb 5th, 2011.

“Rocking Horse” by Kumi machida
sumi(blue), sumi(brown), mineral pigments, pigments and color pencil on kumohada linen paper, 140 x 113cm

Since she expressed freely in the field of traditional Japanese paintings, her works attracted many attentions. The remarkable points of her works are the clear lines in Sumi on Kumohada papers and minimal coloring in mineral pigments. At first sight, you may think they are thick lines drawn with vigor, but gradually you will recognise that they are thin lines drawn repeatedly to give strong impression. The motives painted in her paintings change from objects (for example, Japanese good luck charms) to universal and ambiguous things. As a result of this change, preciseness of the lines has improved more, and the originality of her way of expression has come to a new stage. (text from the gallery)

“Veil of Winter” by Kumi Machida
sumi, mineral pigments, pigments, silver paint and metal leaf on kumohada linen paper, 65.2 x 100cm

Since I saw Machida’s artwork more 5 years ago, it really sticked to my mind. She creates a world of surreal and spooky atmosphere. Black bold line stands out from the canvas and the strong image floats in my head. It is like an image created inside of her head to think of what is happening in the real world. And the title of the artwork connects her mind and the view’s to share the same feeling.