Open a larger version of the following image in a popup:
Courtesy of Douglas Dubler III
Courtesy of Douglas Dubler III
Open a larger version of the following image in a popup:
Courtesy of Jòseh Alva-Vega
Courtesy of Jòseh Alva-Vega
Open a larger version of the following image in a popup:
Courtesy of Jòseh Alva-Vega
Courtesy of Jòseh Alva-Vega
Kaori Someya b. 1977
Singing for the Rocks 巌ニ唄ウ, 2025
Japanese paper, glue, gold leaf, platinum leaf, mineral pigments, dyes
H28 5/8 x W23 7/8 in
H72.7 x W60.6 cm
H72.7 x W60.6 cm
A28761
Copyright The Artist
Further images
Kaori Someya's feminine figure holds an intense and tender gaze nestled amidst glimmering mineral paints and precious gold. The painter's signature urahaku technique is the layering of gold and platinum leaves behind artisinally crafted washi paper. Each layer is textured and worked by hand, undulating with light and movement like a halo around the portrait. Someya's vibrant Nihonga paints breath life into fluttering butterflies that pattern the silk kimono and rest across her body, symbolizing the cycle of life from humble beginnings to at last the spreading of wings.