Pacific Asia Museum, 46 North Los Robles Ave, Pasadena, CA 91101
Takashi Tomo-Oka
April 19 through July 28, 2013
Focus Gallery
Takashi Tomo-oka features six scroll-mounted photographic works that combine the classical and contemporary. As a young artist, Tomo-oka became interested in nihonga (neo-traditional Japanese painting) but was drawn to photography, adopting the digital camera as his medium rather than a brush.
Tomo-oka eliminates all extraneous visual information other than the subject itself—vegetal forms such as maples and dahlias.
The resulting images display a sensibility similar to that of the Rimpa school’s nature studies in the 18th century, but replacing their gold leaf with stark white backgrounds.
Each work is the result of careful study of the plant forms, including structure and color as well as their ephemerality.
These spare compositions are digitally printed on washi paper and mounted in scroll format, further blurring the divide between his painterly sensibilities and digital methods.
Related Programs:
Art and Coffee
May 10, 3 p.m.
Curatorial staff introduce and lead discussion of selected items in this exhibition in this series of informal Friday afternoon get-togethers. Coffee provided by Starbucks.
Fusion Fridays
June 21, 7:30–10:30 p.m.
Experience the dramatic haka warrior dance and more by Le Polynesia, catch the summer spirit with traditional Japanese festival dances, try an activity inspired by special exhibition Takashi Tomo-oka, enjoy delicious treats from food trucks, plus music, dancing and drinks!
Curator's Tour
July 13, 2 p.m.
Enjoy a closer look at the unique works in this exhibition as curatorial staff lead a special tour.