TAI Modern at Asia Week New York 2024

A Pause in Time, An Emptiness in Space: Ma in Japanese Bamboo Art

EXHIBITING AT:
Colnaghi, 23 East 67th Street, Fourth Floor, New York, New York 10065

OPENING RECEPTION:
Thursday, March 14, 5 – 9 PM

HOURS:
Daily 11 AM – 6 PM (or by appointment)

TAI Modern, the leading gallery specializing in contemporary Japanese Bamboo Art at Asia Week New York, is back this year with A Pause in Time, An Emptiness in Space: Ma in Japanese Bamboo Art. The term Ma encompasses various meanings, including space, pause, rest, time, or opening, all of which contribute to shaping the distinct aesthetics of bamboo art. The Heart Sutra, one of the most famous texts in Buddhism, states that “form is emptiness, emptiness is form.” This apparent paradox represents a fundamental philosophy in Japanese design and culture, where the significance of absence is equal to that of presence.

This exhibition showcases extraordinary works by some of bamboo art’s most esteemed artists. On display are over forty masterworks, including the dramatic traditional Peony Basket by Kajiwara Koho, featuring a huge arching handle that creates an empty stage for flower arrangement. Hisatomi Muan presents a contemporary version of a circular-handled peony basket in his work aptly titled Space. Sculptural forms abound in our selection, such as the exuberant Setting Sun by Shono Tokuzo, an astoundingly delicate and airy woven sculpture titled Loop by Tanioka Shigeo, and Plume, a large sculpture by the up-and-coming young artist Hasegawa Kei. Hasegawa’s work was recently added to the collection of a prominent public art museum in America. Notably, Japanese Living National Treasure Fujitsuka Shosei’s The Sound of Waves will make its first appearance since the artist received this prestigious title.

Gallery director Margo Thoma states, “I am honored to showcase these remarkable works during Asia Week. The knowledge and enthusiasm displayed by collectors coming to New York to celebrate our artists are unparalleled. This exhibition provides the perfect platform for appreciating both contemporary and historic bamboo art.”

TAI Modern eagerly embraces this opportunity to offer education and guidance, catering to both seasoned collectors and those exploring the art world for the first time. The exhibition will be on view from March 14 – 22 at Colnaghi, 23 East 67th Street, Fourth Floor, with an opening reception on Thursday, March 14 from 5 – 9 PM.