AOMI KIKUCHI

b.1960, Japan

Lives in Kyoto, Japan

“I make sculptures, wall pieces, and garments using textiles and found objects to explore Japanese aesthetics and the philosophy of Buddha. They are “WabiSabi,” the beauty found in imperfections, and “Monono-aware,” the feeling of sympathy for changing or perishing phenomena or substances. Closely related to the philosophy of Buddha, these can be summarized in three key words: impermanence, insubstantiality, and suffering. My work addresses infinity as the succession of fleeting and brittle activities. With freedom and flexibility, I combine acquired knowledge and experiment and create art to inspire dialogue and reflection on these concepts.”

With over 40 years of dedicated practice, Aomi has honed her expertise in various textile materials and techniques, including dressmaking, traditional Yuzen kimono dyeing, Japanese embroidery, and weaving. Fragility and transience serve as sources of inspiration for Aomi, drawing from the delicate nature of extremely thin fibers, goose down, and wool fiber. Her artworks beautifully capture the essence of natural cycles and textiles, evoking a profound sense of fleeting beauty.

Anson Liaw is an accomplished illustrator based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. With a degree Communication & Design Department Design Advertising Program at the Ontario College of Art (now OCAD University), his illustrations have become an integral part of numerous projects, spanning magazines, book publications, corporate communications, packaging, and advertising.

Anson’s illustrations embody a critical viewpoint, addressing a wide spectrum of subjects, including social, political, cultural issues, and lifestyle matters.

Drawing inspiration from everyday life, personal memories, and imagination, he skillfully combines various elements to construct new and unexpected meanings. His work sparks discussions, encouraging viewers to engage, appreciate, and discover something new about the world every day.

Anson’s talent has garnered recognition and accolades from prestigious organizations such as American Illustration, Society of Illustrators of Los Angeles (SILA), Applied Arts Magazine, and 3x3, The Magazine of Contemporary Illustration, among others. His illustrations have been featured in renowned publications and exhibitions worldwide, including Luerzer’s Archive and Hiii Illustration International Competition.

Throughout his career, Anson has collaborated with a diverse range of clients, including Time Magazine, McDonald’s, The New York Times, Nestle, and The National Ballet of Canada, to name a few. Additionally, he shares his love and passion for the arts by teaching at OCAD University and Virtute Innovation Academy in Canada, nurturing the next generation of creative minds.