Commissioned Collaboration
This month I delivered a special commission to new patrons. The work, Tides of Life, is a collaboration between collector and artist, with the collector providing basic materials and initial inspiration for the direction of the work. Together with original photographs from both the collector and my own collection, I created an image that speaks to the meaning of the Meoto-iwa, or Wedded Rocks of Futamigaura, and celebrates long-lasting love.
The two rocks of Meoto-iwa are considered male and female, and are named Izanagi and Izanami and represent the primal couple in Japanese traditional history. According to legend, it is from this couple that all the Japanese islands were formed.
The rocks are also deemed husband and wife, and are joined in matrimony by sacred ropes called shimenawa, made from braided rice stalks. The ropes weigh almost a tonne alone, and are replaced yearly in a special ceremony.
Below are photographs documenting the creative process. The work is 23”x43” and printed on hand prepared luminescent paper. This was my first large print using the new Golden Digital Grounds (Clear Gloss).
Photo source of the Seto Sea that I shot in November 2007
Sunset in Seto Sea that I shot in November 2007
Sunset sun beams in Seto Sea that I shot in November 2007
Wall texture that I shot in Kyoto, December 2007
Source material of Meoto-iwa, provided by collectors
Hand written wedding invitation provided by collectors
Japanese character for “Love”, provided by collectors
Preparing the Luminescent Paper
Tides of Life being printed in the artist’s studio.
After drying the print was trimmed to actual size and professionally framed by Bontrager Framing.
Share your secrets about commissions or collaborations. Leave your comments below.
Tags: Art, Collaboration, Commission, Japan, Luminescent Printmaking
March 28th, 2008 at 7:54 pm
This is such an interesting piece and I loved reading about the process. The closest I have come to a similar process was designing a wall piece for a church — the Worship committee wanted it to reflect both the style and imagery of the stained glass and the liturgical symbols of the Presbyterians. Of course, my media is much different, but the wedding of images and ideas had some similarities.
April 7th, 2008 at 11:39 am
Gorgeous! I am convinced you do not sleep! I love the Tortilla Curtain work…wish i could make it down there to see it. You are a darling and an inspiration. -Nance