Études
Fourth Wall Project, Boston, MA
On view: April 14 - May 18, 2014
The exhibition centers around fortynine abstract compositions on paper that showcase the art of pinstriping, a technique of decorative painting that Nakayama has dedicated the last decade to mastering. Learning pinstriping was the impetus for Nakayama’s move to the US from Japan, and while his past pinstriping pieces have adorned text on signs, antique saws, motorcycles, and other practical surfaces, “Études” strips context and subject away in favor of a formalist exploration.
The exhibition’s title refers to the classical music composition format that is characteristically brief, albeit technically challenging, and provides a vehicle for virtuosity. This body of work was created over the last seven months, and for each piece, Nakayama worked within specific parameters: black paper, acrylic work, and a white enamel finish that serves as a compositional “anchor” of sortsa black and white horizontal compass for line and color to live within.
The series begins with several rosettes created in summer and fall of 2013, which conjures stained glass, mandalas, and hubcaps. Nakayama’s work transitions organically from circular works to more calligraphic compositions that meander from central points, oras with his later works, are repetitive and scriptlike. Études 3138 take inspiration from Edoera signage, which is defined by thick and heavy brushstrokes.
The number of works created in this series, fortynine, refers to the period of mourning that is observed within Zen Buddhist traditions. Within this ritual, it is believed that the spirit of the deceased will transition into the next realm after a fortynine day period; the fortyninth day is celebrated by family and friends with a ceremony.
The exhibition features other works which are created on repurposed objects and heavy panels. A discarded crucifix is given a gold, red, and black pinstriping treatment that evokes Byzantine and Eastern Orthodox motifs, while other surfaces play host to totemic compositions that reference Pacific Northwest and Ainu art. As with the Études series, these idiosyncratic works are defined by symmetry and balance of line and color.
PRESS RELEASE
This show was curated by Kristen Wawruck
co-organized by Kristen Wawruck & Oliver Mak.
sponsored by Converse Inc
About the Curator Kristen Wawruck is an arts worker, writer, and curator. Prior to moving to the Bay Area, she was the Deputy Director of Swiss Institute in New York.
