As a child, painter Motoaki Higashizono apprenticed under Noh actor Jikan Hashioka, working to master the highly stylized Japanese drama style.
The Tokyo native now blends his theatre background with traditional Japanese painting and the style of Austrian symbolist painter Gustav Klimt to create dazzling works that will be on show at the Frederick Harris Gallery from February 6 to 26.
Why did you take up painting?
I was drawn to Japanese painting after seeing an exhibit by [Kyoto artist] Shoen Uemura. I decided to pursue art in the final year of high school.
What is the connection between Noh and art?
I find splendor in the subtlety of the uniquely Japanese use of pauses, as well as…the beautiful patterns and delicate colors of the costumes.
Which of your exhibitions had the greatest impact?
Each exhibit was like a mountain of different heights. The hard work and subsequent scenery were all beautiful in their own way.
Gallery Exhibition
Feb 6–26
Gallery Reception
Free
Open to adults, invitees and Members only