Synchronicity - The interconnectedness of all things by Reiko Azuma and Amy Jones
Synchronicity - The interconnectedness of all things by Reiko Azuma and Amy Jones
- Exhibition dates: 31 August to 17 September 2023
Image by Reiko Azuma & Amy Jones
There is an enormity of hope that can be taken from the micro, and encouragement can be found in the infinite possibilities of the everyday encounter. Jones and Azuma trust in organic momentum, becoming lost in the process of interacting with light, shadow, colours and lines. This affirms that happiness and creativity is never far from all of us. It can be found in this moment as we strive to practice "appreciation and openness". Azuma and Jones found a synchronicity in their approach to their work, and a cohesiveness to the visual language they use, despite their very different mediums.
Artist/s statement
Amy Jones
Amy Jones’ work is predominantly based on botanical references, both abstract and figurative. She seeks to explore the notion of memory and change over time, creating dreamlike, abstracted gardens. The imagery chosen references personal symbols of remembrance, love, loss and renewal. Jones works primarily in textiles, using a mixture of new and recycled materials. The stitching itself is a process of reflection and meditation. Her current series is based on the need for green spaces and connection. Jones also teaches textile workshops throughout Sydney.
Reiko Azuma
Reiko was always surrounded by art. Her mother Toshiko was an extensive kimono, Japanese textile and ceramic collector. She also practices Ikebana, Sado (Japanese Tea Ceremony), Taisho Goto and Shamisen player. Reiko has fond memories of visiting the studio of respected Ceramic Master Enryu with her mother. Enryu provided his seasonal works for Toshiko’s Traditional Japanese Kappo Ryori (Japanese seasonal fine dining) Restrant Bar in Tokyo. Toshiko‘s father (Reiko’s grandfather) Kinji Ichino was a leading commercial artist in Yokohama, Kanagawa in 1940’s to 1960’s, also worked as an artist and illustrator for Advisement department of Fujiya (Japanese Confectionery company) and US Army Base Publisher.
Reiko has had life changing encounters with two of her art teachers. During Reiko’s senior years at Yashio Kita Elementary School in Tokyo, Reiko encountered an art teacher/artist/writer Mr Mitsuhiro Shimizu (Currently Professor of Primary (art) education at Showa Woman’s University, leading academic on primary art education and published writer) who encouraged and nurtured Reiko’s keen interest in art. He showed her printmaking, carving, ceramics, pottery and introduced her further into the world of art. He ignited a passion for creation in her young heart. During the her years at Junshin Ladies College in Hiroo, she studied Japanese Tea Ceremony Sado under the school of Sohenryu (山田宗徧流）where she was exposed and memorised by the artistry of Wagashi (sculptured small Japanese sweets) and beauty of Tea Bowls ceramics. During her high school years in Sydney at the Emanuel College in eastern suburb of Sydney, Reiko had a great opportunity to study visual art and photography under Miss Debra Stone; an enthusiastic young photographer who graduated from New York Institute of Photography. She nurtured Reiko’s passion for art and photography, taught the traditional method of photography printing processes. She also encouraged Reiko’s Japanese heritage which come though her art. Reiko has never attended fine art tertiary education, she continues to create art to this day. Art is very much part of her life, just like eating and breathing.
- Instagram: @amysgrandpacat @reikoazumaart
- Website: grandpacat.com.au
Accessibility information: The gallery has an accessible bathroom. There is a set of stairs inside the building and a lift for wheelchair access.