LACMA has the best exhibit space for Japanese Art in Southern CA. Usually these large display spaces house Japanese screens. It is so exciting to see these kimonos up close. They always have one kimono on display – so this is an extra treat.
This exhibit explores Kimonos from the 1930’s – 1950’s. Japan has an incredible tradition of all kinds of crafts. They are also known for adhering very strictly to the rules. Which is what makes this exhibit so exciting. Most of the kimonos are from the 1950’s and often the fabric used is Rayon, not silk. The prints are a very modern take on traditional designs, as well as a very strong influence of Western art and textile prints. Not to mention what great quilt some of these pattern would make.
Wonderful feathers, bold and graphic.
Here is the wavy squiggle, going from almost traditional to free-hand graphic. The color choices are also a very bold statement. The dragonfly is a traditional motif, the colors and scale – are not.
Look at these polka dots! I think this might be my favorite as far as breaking away from Japanese tradition. The colors, the size of the dots, the fine black border around each one. One bolt of 36″ fabric is used to make a kimono.
In complete contrast, look at these fine stripes with what looks like a comb was dragged through them to create the staggering effect. I love how the stripes are precise, but the jagged offset isn’t.
Mountains, trees and streams are all very traditional Japanese themes in art. This is a very modern take, the shapes aren’t realistic at all – they are stylized. The Colors are anything but natural – black and peach colored trees, red mountains, yellow river.
Two very different takes on graphics.
Final word, the Netsuke. Kimonos have no pockets, but people need to carry things. Of course the ingenious Japanese figured out how to hang little boxes from their obis. Counter balance! There is a large gallery with about 150 of these objects. LACMA has a very large collection and is often switching them out. So to end I give you this:
Carved from Ivory, about 2″ high. A picture scroll of a samurai defeating a demon – coming to life!. The back is just as wonderful, another demon pushing back against the tip of the sword that is cutting through the scroll.
The kimono exhibit is up until Oct. 19. Don’t wait, run over to LACMA and see these beauties.
Leah