Ikebana:Shibui, Circa 2023

Lori Bagnérès  

This artwork entitled Ikebana"Shibui  features an elegant still life of delicate cherry blossoms adorned with vibrant leaves, gracefully arranged in a slender ceramic Asian-style blue vase. The muted, textured background provides a captivating contrast to the vivid colors of the foliage, drawing the viewer's attention to the intricate details of the leaves. The composition is balanced yet dynamic, with cherry-branches extending in varied directions, creating a sense of natural movement. The vase, adorned with subtle floral patterns, adds a touch of classic elegance, grounding the composition. The artwork employs a subtle color palette, enhancing its tranquil and contemplative atmosphere. The artist's use of interplay of light and shadow adds depth and dimension, while her textured built-up surface made with Venetian plaster evokes a sense of time and history. This piece uniquely captures the ephemeral beauty of nature, inviting contemplation and appreciation of its quiet elegance and explores the Japanese philosophy of Wabi-Sabi -  which evolves around  an acceptance and appreciation of the impermanent, imperfect and incomplete nature of everything. Wabi -Sabi is a recognition of the gifts of simple, slow and natural living.