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Gampi Unryushi paper, water color and mixed media
The bamboo works are a personal pursuit to integrate the beauty and lure of paper, the perfection of
origami and the power of nature. These pieces range from 36" tall to 48" tall. The green bamboos are 2" diameter pieces and the purple and gold are 3" diameter. The leaves are paper and the branches are from real bamboo. All have been treated with a heavy yet invisible coating of acrylic.
Symbolism: Bamboo is a strong and versatile material that has inspired artists for thousands of years. It grows straight and vigorous withstanding extremes in weather, yet when it sways in the wind, it seems yielding and compliant. It is easy to understand how ordinary people can identify with these qualities. The chinese character used for the joints of the bamboo, jie, is the same as that used for the principles of living a good life. In addition, the hollow branches remind us that no matter how much you know, there is always room to absorb more.
The significance of folding 1,000 of these auspicious birds is thought to grant a wish. They are often given as a prayer for recovery and good health as well as a way to celebrate a new marriage. It is in the search for meaning and a wish for a more peaceful planet that I have completed this 10 year project. Mounted on a wooden frame measuring 7' x 3.5'. Contact Joan for more details.
From a Chinese immigrant's vision using a Japanese art form, an Italian creator's (Pessina) rose and an American woman's craft comes a flag of 350 roses hung from bamboo.
36" x 54"
These hummingbirds with paper bamboo and flowers are mounted above the fireplace in a private collection. Contact Joan for pricing on a unique custom piece.