Year: 2022
Medium: acrylic on canvas
Dimensions: 91 x 116.7 cm (35 7/8 x 46 in.)
Acquired from ShugoArts, 2022
Kondo often depicts the image of hugging someone in her works. Loving and walking together with someone is essential in life. It requires facing the person by breaking down the barrier between each other’s heart. Kondo's recent works depict the image of tough people overcoming that barrier confidently by using bright colors and strong brushstrokes. Although this work depicts bear-like characters, their soft and gentle touch like that of a stuffed toy, can be felt through the texture of the painting. It is a warm family portrait with a new life. The baby bear is gently embraced by the large bodies of two peacefully sleeping bears, with its eyes wide open as if it is not sleepy or just woke up or lost in contemplation. The texture of the fur and the weight of the arms are expressed by the layers of paint that are liven up by Kondo's signature dynamic brushstrokes.
