Non-Local Movement No.13, 2025

Mike Sasaki   Emerging artists

Undulating fields—bending, stretching and morphing—in an abstract space; the geometry of the invisible forces and essences fluttering behind the tangible world; thus were the ideas fuelling the development of Non-Local Movement No.13.

Although largely influenced by the idea of a morphing plane, there appears a certain solidity to the form. Yet, this sense of mass is soon deflated as the form reveals its spacious and hollow interior to the exploring viewer.

It is perhaps this airy quality—which seems to drive and mould the shape and structure of the piece—that assumes a dominant theme in the work.

The sculpture is carved in Western Red Cedar with hand tools. The carving block was constructed from two pieces of wood laminated together. Once the shape is cut out using saws, chisels, gouges, knives and files; it is then sanded smooth. The final refinements of the curves and edges happen during the sanding stage, resulting in the precise geometry and smooth surface of the finished piece.

The piece, with its subtle nature, seems to welcome a natural window light from the side. In darker settings, illumination from a single source or multiple sources are options which will produce greatly varied results. The higher contrast from a single source will deepen the sense of mystery within the form, while multiple lights will create dynamic shadow play. 

I hope this piece draws forth a sense of geometric curiosity and existential mystery along with the silent words it speaks to the beholder.