Spotlight Artist

Nishiki Sugawara-Beda

West
Artist profile photo

KuroKuroShiro+MVII

Abstract art with swirling brown shapes, textured white background, and a black surrounding border.

pigments, sumi, and animal glue on muslin wrapped on wood

KuroKuroShiro MI

Abstract black and white painting with dots and bold brush strokes.

sumi on muslin wrapped on wood

KuroKuroShiro+MV

Brown and gray vertical streaks of paint on a white background.

pigments, sumi, and animal glue on muslin wrapped on wood

Featured in New American Paintings1 / 3

Artist Statement

 Land connects us all.

This sentiment stems from my deep desire to engage with others and the world around me. To pursue this, I embarked on my own path to uncover the core of humanity—a place where I felt true connection with others could begin. As an artist and individual whose foundation and inspiration arise from tracing the roots of cultural and material origins, I am now delving into the concept of material embodiment in my work.

KuroKuroShiro, meaning black-black-white in Japanese, uses Japanese Sumi ink and positions landscape as a conceptual framework for the interior world—a sublime space where we might all connect. KuroKuroShiro+, a new series, foregrounds the materials from a specific place, including the state that I now call home. Materials from Texas and Japan speak quietly yet profoundly. Their dialogue takes center stage, visually showcasing a fusion of culture and materiality. I hope to invite viewers to experience this cultural conversation on an elemental, earthbound level.

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