BE THERENorihiko SaitoPresented by Dillon Gallery October 8, 2009- November 7, 2009Reception: October 8, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pmNorihiko SaitoDillon Gallery is pleased to announce the first solo exhibition in the United States of the work of the acclaimed Japanese painter Norihiko Saito. “I believe that the method of overlapping one’s own interpretation of the subject and not relying on the visual scene of painting is the most appropriate way to revitalize the current single-serving painting as a tool to recreate and pass on the fruitful images we carry within ourselves,” Norihiko Saito. Saito considers his work to be analogous with the aesthetic of the ancient poems of Heian Era 794 – 1185: art bringing ancient poems to light. He does not attempt to draw directly from the landscape or object before him, but instead makes his works purposefully ambiguous in order to allow the viewer their own interpretations from memory. The painter like the early poets, rather than reading the scenery, creates a new dimension by overlapping his own vision on what already exists. Norihiko Saito has drawn attention as a leading figure in Nihonga innovation. As a student of Tokyo National University of Fine Art and Music in 1989, he was acknowledged early as an innovator of the Nihonga technique. Energetically expanding the individual nature of the materials and process, his work dispels all external references, turning his perceived memories into a non-objective abstraction. Saito is able to create a unique spatiality, presented through a tactile sense. On account of its materiality this abstract quality provides an unrivaled and beautiful surface that holds a sublime spirituality. Beginning with washi paper that is aged 5 to 10 years, the artist stains these papers with the cherry blossom and adds an additional element to the composition before the application of minerals has even begun. Taking great care with the materials and techniques of Nihonga, he applies the grainy, glittery, ground mineral pigments on the picture plane with water soluble glue, drying and washing the surface of the painting with water. The sizing, backing and lining of the paper, all which would be considered preparation for a Western artist, are actually an integral part of his creative process. Widely regarded as one of the greatest technicians of his generation, Saito uses his expertise to hide the craft and subject, revealing the expressive form of space that can only be achieved by his masterful use of this method. Born in 1957, he completed his doctorate at the Tokyo University of Fine Art and Music and is currently an associate professor in Japanese traditional painting at the Tokyo National University. The recipient of numerous grants, awards and prizes, Saito is considered to be amongst the most important mid-career artists working in Japan. His art is included in: National Museum of Modern Art Tokyo, Yamatane Museum of Art, Ohara Museum of Art, Nigata Bandajima Art Museum, Museum of Art – Hiroshima University
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