TSUYOSHI MAEKAWA
Distinguished artist of the second generation of Gutai Art Association, Tsuyoshi Maekawa(b. 1936, Osaka), makes use of burlap as a signature medium throughout his career. Maekawa's works have a strong tendency toward abstract expressionism and is known for his incredible use of materials. The artist uses a sewing machine and his hands to intentionally create wrinkles and textures of hemp and burlap canvas: experimentally twisting, cutting, tearing, and shaping the canvas, creating protrusions and void depth, results in unprecedented works that blurred the boundaries between sculpture and painting. His at-the-time innovative methodology encourages the exploration of materiality and abstract concepts. With simple yet powerful lines like tidal currents and vivid colourful tones, Maekawa's practice reveals rich emotions and avant-garde ideas, opening a dialogue between the artist, viewers, artworks, and the spaces they inhabit, connecting gesture marking, spirit and his philosophy.