Vital Energy — Rebirth and Revival ©2025, Fumiyo Yoshikawa
48x12 inches each, sumi ink on Kozo paper
地神Vital Energy — Rebirth and Revival
In Japan, snakes have long been revered as symbols of the earth’s energy, often associated with deities of fertility, water, and abundance. Across the globe, snakes are similarly venerated as powerful symbols of rebirth and regeneration, their shedding skin embodying the essence of renewal.
Last year, during an artist residency in Guatemala, I was deeply inspired by the lush subtropical vegetation surrounding ancient ruins. Visiting the Suniil hot springs and the ancient site of Takalik Abaj, I was awestruck by the enormous tropical plants, their scale and vibrancy overwhelming in their vitality. In these vivid settings, I imagined serpents weaving through the dense greenery. Rather than depicting tropical snakes specific to the region, I envisioned the sacred white snake of Japanese mythology, transforming the scene into a universal, imaginative world unbound by geography. This creative vision became the foundation of this painting.
To bring this vision to life, I employed traditional Japanese painting techniques. In addition to sumi ink, I incorporated natural materials such as indigo, pure gold, and yellow ochre—a pigment derived from clay—as well as mineral-based pigments, coral powders, and gofun, a white pigment made from oyster shells. These pigments were meticulously prepared with nikawa, an animal-based binder, and applied with care to achieve a rich and harmonious composition.
Through this work, I aim to share the profound vitality and resilience that the snake symbolizes—a message of rebirth and renewal that resonates universally, especially in a world grappling with cycles of loss and regeneration. I hope it encourages viewers to reflect on their own capacity for transformation and resilience in the face of modern challenges. My hope is that viewers feel a deep connection to this energy and are inspired by the life force embedded within the painting.
About "The Realm"
During my summer visit to Japan last year in 2023, I found inspiration to create this painting while exploring a promenade by chance. On a brief trip with my elderly mother, we stayed at a mountainous hot spring ryokan near the promenade. The entrance appeared neglected, causing uncertainty about whether to proceed. However, a simplified map revealed an observation deck on a small hill not too far away. Considering my mother's weak legs, I decided to leave her at the ryokan and embark on a short solo stroll.
As I walked, moments arose when the path was concealed by overgrown bushes, prompting contemplation of turning back. Nonetheless, I pressed on, stumbling upon a small, dilapidated pavilion. According to the map, the observation deck lay further ahead—densely wooded and eerily enticing. I followed the path as if lured by something. Suddenly, the surroundings darkened, and upon turning around, the road that seemed distant before vanished amid dense vegetation. A chill ran down my spine in that space. Realizing I should not proceed, I decided to turn back, eventually returning to the familiar path, and reaching the inn where my mother awaited.
Had I continued that path, I might have truly lost my way. I pondered if this mirrored the phenomenon of "kamikakushi” or being spirited away, a disappearance without a trace, as if hidden by kami or gods, renewing my awe for nature.
Drawing inspiration from this peculiar experience, I created the artwork upon my return to the United States after several prototypes. Hoping to capture the unique energy and aura of that moment, I applied Japanese painting techniques, using ink and paint in abstract patterns. I incorporated impressions and imagination of the landscape, applying meticulous layers of materials like gofun (white pigment from oyster shells), iwaenogu (mineral and earth pigments), and pure gold powder.
The Realm©2024,Fumiyo Yoshikawa, 48x12 inch each, Sumi-ink, mineral /Nihonga pigments, gold on Mashi paper