The Return to Equilibrium No.5, 2024

Mike Sasaki   Emerging artists

Sculpted from one piece of Western Red Cedar, The Return to Equilibrium No.5 seems to outline or define its inner space. The sweeping, almost calligraphic, curves with their natural wood surface were carefully carved, then smoothed with fine sandpaper. The natural colour of the wood is a medium warm subdued brown, and the subtle yet defined grain figure gently envelopes the piece with its concentric rings and layers.

In The Return to Equilibrium No.5, sharp edges and distinct faces merge together with subtle complexity. The face-edge ambiguity results in weighted lines and volume which contrast with the thin and more acute elements. The spacious interior defined by the smooth inner surface curvature imparts a sense of calm as its outer structure, although still, provides a sense of movement through its parabolic curves.

On the concept:
The beauty to be discovered by contemplating Natural law, specifically the seeking "return" of nature to a state of balance, inspires this series of forms.

On the process:
The sculpture was carved with hand tools including a gouge and mallet, a drawknife, knives, rasps, files and sandpaper. In order to safely carve the pointed shapes of the form (more delicate due to wood grain orientation), increasing care was needed as the piece gradually approached thinness of material and finality.

The piece will be carefully packed for shipping.

Avoiding handling with oily hands. Fingernails will scratch the wood surface. The piece is signed on the bottom including the year of creation. A personalized booklet with the above description and other relevant information is included. This piece, although designed for front viewing, has many other interesting viewing and lighting angles to be discovered. Experimenting with various lighting and spatial arrangements is encouraged. Dust with a soft cloth and keep a reasonable distance from heat sources.