Year: 2012
Medium: wood, acrylic
Dimensions: 48 x 33 x 20 cm (18 7/8 x 13 x 7 7/8 in.)
Acquired from a private collection, 2024
This work was one of the many sculptures that Kato presented as outdoor installations at the “2012 Rokko Meets Art - Art Walk”. The long wedge-like form, which appears to be the neck of the figure, was anchored into the soil during the exhibition. Although Kato has been engaging in wooden sculpture since around 2003, it is expected that outdoor exhibitions, such as this one, may change due to environmental factors and the passing of time. Compared to photographs of when this work was first exhibited, the acrylic paint has slightly faded, and the wood is becoming washed out in color. The figure’s humanoid form cannot be the only explanation for how it seems to feel like it has lived through the passing of this time. The pose of the figure with its raised arms could signify joy or anger, yet either emotion remains difficult to discern from its beady black eyes and similarly round pursed lips.
