Yamato Nadeshiko

On ongoing series, the women of Japan in their elaborate kimonos and elusive expressions have captured the attention of many an artist. My paintings are based on various references, from my own photos to ancient Ukiyo-e paintings and pre WWII block prints.

Yamato Nadeshiko is a Japanese word meaning "personification of an idealized Japanese woman", "ideal" in the historical context of the patriarchal, traditional culture of Japan. This floral metaphor, combining Yamato, an ancient name for Japan and nadeshiko "Dianthus superbus, Large Pink", literally translated as "Japanese Dianthus".

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