Shinsuke Higuchi
Live Forever (Black Flag), 2017, acrylic on canvas, approx. 58.5 x 100.5 inches. Shinsuke Higuchi at Cafe Buunni in December, 2017. Photo by Natalia
Artist Statement
I begin my paintings with a specific subject in mind reflecting my concerns with environmental, social, and political issues, as well as interpersonal relationships. From an initial idea I draw out abstract imagery through my subconscious or simply aesthetically pleasing patterns. I build up surfaces with layers of paint, sometimes drawing upon my lifelong training as a Japanese calligrapher, and I juxtapose fine linework on these highly textured grounds. But those lines are disappearing again from my paintings. We'll see what's going to happen.
My latest works began as explorations into waterfalls which led to a series on Koi fish. Koi are revered in Japan for their beauty, and it is said they become dragons if they achieve the seemingly insurmountable climb up to the top of a waterfall.
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Artist Biography
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Shinsuke Higuchi was born in Kokura, Kitakyushu, Japan. He moved to the United States in the late 90s, and explored the Southwest’s heritage and culture while at the University of Arizona. During his studies he was awarded the Cultural Diversity Scholarship, for which "150 extraordinary talented artists from across the country" competed. Since graduating BA cum laude in Painting and Creative Writing, he has maintained his studio practice producing numerous works including murals and corporate commissions. Higuchi has exhibited nationally as well as in Mexico and Japan. He lives and works in New York City.
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