"The Floating World" refers to the popular culture of early modern Edo period Japan (1600-1868). It represented a transitory approach to life where people lived for the moment-literally "floating" through life's pleasures. Fashion became a symbol of one's wealth, character and aesthetic sensibility displayed in the kosode garment which is a precursor to the modern day kimono.

The Kosode Scroll is a 4.25' x 33' mixed media watercolor and collage installation inspired by the flowing designs, lush beauty and tactile elegance of Edo period Japanese textiles. It is a unique ambitious interpretation of early modern Japanese art and design. 

The idea of a continuous evolutionary image to me is symbolic of an aesthetic narrative echoing the historical Asian form. The Kosode Scroll is built on the thoughtful juxtaposition of color and form creating a sensation of advancement and recession throughout the vertical plane emphasizing the directional flow and movement. It is not framed or protected, meaning, it could easily be harmed or destroyed. Metaphorically representing nature, culture and humanity in a sense of physicality and spirit, it is fragile and vulnerable to old biases.

 

The Floating World exhibition is my interpretation of 18^th century Japanese culture, formalist theory and postmodern consciousness in terms of methods of appropriation, materials, design and ornament.