Exhibtion: "The Botanical Art of Yoshitsugu Koyanagi" @ the National Arboretum
This Exhibition is taking place at the National Arboretum from March 4 through May 31, 2007 “Take a small flower in your hand and observe it. From its lovely form, color, and aroma, we feel the vitality and the existence of the great universe. When I am sketching plants, I am freed from daily pressure, and the satisfaction that I accumulate gives me enough energy to face another day”. -Yoshitsugu Koyanagi Yoshitsugu Koyanagi is a celebrated botanical artist from Japan. His works have been featured in various showings in Japan and are displayed at a number of prefectural museums throughout the country. The National Arboretum is honored to have the privilege of hosting Mr. Koyanagi’s first exhibition outside of Japan. Mr. Koyanagi is highly influenced by 16th century German artist Albrecht Durer. Durer’s philosophy that “Art is found in nature” inspired Mr. Koyanagi to find art in the simplest of his surroundings. Anything from a mere blade of grass to the most complicated blossom can be made into art. The most beautiful flower will eventually whither and die, but when captured by the artist’s hand, they remain forever in full bloom. Mr. Koyanagi teaches botanical art at the NHK Culture Center and Showa Girls’ University Open College. An author as well as an artist, he has written five textbooks, and his work and articles have been published in botanical art books and magazines. He has received numerous awards for his works. There will be an opportunity to meet the artist, Mr. Koyanagi, at the opening reception of his exhibition at 2 p.m., Sunday, March 4th, 2007. The exhibition will continue through May 31, 2007 and will be open daily from 9a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This exhibition of The Botanical Art of Yoshitsugu Koyanagi is co-sponsored by the Japan Information & Culture Center, Embassy of Japan. For directions and further information please call 202-245-4523, or visit www.usna.usda.gov All images © Yoshitsugu Koyanagi |