Essays in Idleness – Modern Edition: “The Pursuit of Depth”
As I sit idly with brush in hand, letting random thoughts flow through my mind and setting them down without particular purpose, I find myself in a curious state indeed.
On this occasion, I wish to record my thoughts regarding the technique of “depth expression” bestowed upon me by Master Koji Sato, which I have endeavored to incorporate into my “Neo-Japonesque” creations.
Through thousands of trials and the production of nearly a thousand works, I have discovered a harmony between East and West reminiscent of the poet Yosano Isamu’s verse: “Cherry blossoms falling upon the moss of Saigyo’s tomb.” Branches of cherry trees intertwine with Western spires, and kimono sleeves brush against cathedral pillars.Such scenes evoke the meeting of Eastern and Western beauty, captivating the heart.
Master Sato’s teaching of the sequence “protagonist → stage → finishing touches” is truly a reasonable principle that illuminates the path of my creative process. The layering of “large → medium → small → effect” serves as a technique drawing the viewer deeper into the work, like Heian-era picture scrolls layered behind folding screens.
However, the fusion of “Neo-Japonesque” and “Art Nouveau” remains a journey half-completed. To transcend the superficial juxtaposition of “cherry blossoms and Western architecture” and achieve a deeper cultural integration requires further dedication. Particularly, my specialty of glass transparency and crystal-like light refraction has yet to reach a satisfactory level.
As Master Sato himself says, the technique of “layered background” holds infinite possibilities for depth. Yet to truly master it, perhaps another thousand nights of effort are required.
There is no end to the path of art. My “pursuit of depth” is likewise an endless journey. Nevertheless, I shall continue forward step by step, nourished by the wisdom imparted by Master Sato. Like gazing at the moon above the clouds, I maintain the mindset of always aiming higher.
In the artistic endeavors of this world, the guidance of pioneers is precious. With profound gratitude for Master Sato’s instruction, I shall continue on my own path. The Japanese spirit visible through glass, the sound of koto echoing in Western corridors—I shall continue wielding brush and creating images in pursuit of the ultimate fusion.
I shall not neglect my daily practice, looking forward to the day when I might once again engage in artistic discourse with Master Sato at an even higher level of achievement.