Cosmos of Monochromes

The exhibition is the final event in the autumn panel of Sofia Paper Art Fest 2024, which includes 5 exhibitions with a series of workshops and demonstrations of contemporary Japanese art. The exhibition is part of the 35th Days of Japanese Culture in Bulgaria. The artworks are specially created for the space of Gallery “Sredets”.
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In 2023, the artist Kenji Sato was awarded the most prestigious prize of Sofia Paper Art Fest – Grand Prix Amateras. His current solo project seeks to bring us into an atmosphere of timelessness and cosmos. An elegant and mystical collection is presented, woven from ethereal delicate structures created through the famous “sumi” ink. Sato’s work is characterized by its spare language, multi-layered nuances and meditative suggestion. The pulsating structures convey a sense of starry vastness. The rhythmic repetition is deliberately intended by the author, and he shares:

“Through the repetition of simple actions and patterns, the great cosmos is born, which is expanded by imaginary images. This is one of the characteristic modes of expression in my art. The relationship between this characteristic and the material are guiding my work.

I use “sumi” ink to dye and paint on paper. Unlike familiar dyes, this is a deep black that penetrates the fibers of the paper. Paper is one of the most delicate and beautiful materials inherited from antiquity. I would like to discover a beautiful and deep monochromatic cosmos using the power of ink and paper.

I also want to visualize and feel the cosmos through art. Just like life, peaceful everyday life, quiet and gentle cosmos...with the philosophy of peace...”
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The exhibition was opened by Mr. Shinozawa, Counsellor at the Embassy of Japan, and Mr. Muraki, Cultural Affairs Counsellor, in the presence of the organisers and the author. Kenji Sato visited Sofia especially for the event. On October 16 the artist demonstrated the technique “sumi-e” on traditional Japanese fans.
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The organizers – Amateras Foundation and Gallery “Sredets”, have a long-standing partnership, presenting Japanese art more than once.

The exhibition is on view in the period of October 15–25, 2024.

Partners of the project are Ministry of Culture, Embassy of Japan in Bulgaria, and Sofia Municipality.
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The exhibition is organized with the financial support of programs “Visual Arts” of the Ministry of Culture, “Creation ’23” by the National Culture Fund, and the Calendar of Cultural Events of Sofia Municipality 2024.