PARALLEL +, in collaboration with Artemis Art, proudly presents "East x South East: Converging Cultural Horizons." This exhibition focuses on the significance of cross-cultural exchange through art, showcasing works by artists from Japan, Malaysia, and the Philippines. Arthaland Century Pacific Tower, the world's first EDGE Zero Carbon-certified building and Arthaland's flagship multi-certified office development, will proudly host this exhibition, underscoring its commitment to fostering cultural exchange in the Philippines.
Recommendation for Viewing. The arrangement of artworks by each artist embodies a deep engagement with the Japanese concept of Ma and the Zen spirit of Kuu. These principles, which highlight the importance of space, interval, and emptiness, allow meaning to emerge in the interplay between form and absence.
Introducing Junichi ITO
Based in Mie Prefecture, Junichi Ito collaborates extensively across various artistic genres, bridging traditional and digital innovation. His work encompasses the tranquility of static calligraphy and the dynamic energy of live performances, supporting local communities, empowering the vulnerable, and nurturing future generations through artistic mentorship. His commitment to multicultural exchange and the promotion of local culture on a national and international scale exemplifies his enduring dedication.
As a calligrapher, performance artist, and compassionate activist, Junichi Ito was honored with the Mie Prefecture Culture Prize for his remarkable contributions. Noteworthy is his achievement in Taiwan, where he became the first Japanese artist to be recognized as an international regular member by the prestigious National Palace Museum.
“天 | HEAVEN”
Created at Amanoiwato Shrine in Shima City, Mie Prefecture, this site is renowned for the myth found in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki, where Amaterasu Omikami retreated into the Iwato cave, plunging the world into darkness.
To symbolize the introduction of ‘light’ into the current chaos shrouded in darkness, Ito performed a ceremony filled with hope at the entrance of the shrine.
The character '天' is naturally symmetrical, but when confined to a screen, it can feel constrained, much like how many individuals in today's society may feel restricted by existing structures. In this piece, the balance shifts leftward, and the final stroke evokes a sense of liberation, offering a feeling of freedom—sending our hopes to Heaven.
Medium: Sumi Ink on Japanese Paper
Dimension & Year: 75 x 75 cm, 2023
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In 2007, I encountered calligraphy, and time seemed to race forward. That meeting was undeniably significant. What is art? What is calligraphy? I don’t have a clear answer, but I know they serve as tools for connecting hearts. Words vary across languages and often fail to express our true thoughts. Despite my experiences abroad, I’m still not fluent in English, but I’ve realized that art transcends these barriers. My connection to calligraphy—a quintessentially Japanese tradition passed down through generations—has become my way of communicating beyond words, and I feel deeply grateful for this gift.
My encounter with calligraphy has nurtured my heart and guided me along this path. As I continue, I do so with a profound sense of responsibility, aiming to create pieces that transcend time and touch the essence of humanity. My goal is to inspire reflection, to build a world where art connects us in ways that words cannot. With each stroke of the brush, I carry forward a legacy that links past, present, and future—a journey shaped by reverence, respect, and the hope that these moments of connection will echo for generations to come.
Gaze at the sky
Calms our mind, body, and soul
Fills our hopes and the voids
That tribulations may end
Allowing a renewed spirit to emerge
Welcoming the promise of the heavens.
Junichi Ito creations stem from emotions accumulated over time and the collective prayers of many individuals. The fusion of history and life is embodied in his works through Sumi ink, birthing new vitality.
“A thousand years,
I hope that my works can endure for
a thousand years,
their significance anchored in
a future world of peace and love.”
Observing Urauchi in Ito’s calligraphy works.
Urauchi (裏打ち) is a traditional reinforcement technique employed in the mounting of artworks, calligraphy, hanging scrolls, and various paper or fabric-based pieces. This method is a vital component of Japanese mounting techniques (表具技術, Hyogu Gijutsu), playing a crucial role in enhancing both the durability and aesthetics of the artwork.
As an indispensable practice, Urauchi significantly contributes to the preservation of the beauty and longevity of artworks, thereby safeguarding traditional Japanese cultural assets and artistic treasures.