Sachiko Kamiki at Whitestone Gallery Beijing

Entering Whitestone Gallery Beijing, Kamiki Sachiko's solo exhibition, 'Parody,' delves into the post-pandemic world, where her art weaves a vibrant tapestry from a fresh perspective. In Artisl’s exclusive interview, we sat down with the artist to unravel the layers of her ambitious creative journey, exploring the diverse facets that make 'Parody' a captivating expression of art amidst the evolving landscapes of our times.

Sachiko Kamiki: Parody

1. We are eager to learn more about your solo exhibition, “Parody,” at Whitestone Gallery. Could you give us insights into the theme and inspiration behind your new series?

Kamiki: In this exhibition, I utilized familiar characters such as Alice and recognizable objects like Haribo, striving to make modern art more accessible, particularly for those unfamiliar with the art world.

My aim is to simplify the art experience, offering a gateway for audiences to appreciate the richness of color and find the joy and intrigue within art. I hope to cultivate interest and encourage further exploration into the realm of modern art. Simultaneously, my goal is to create metaphysical, powerful artworks for art enthusiasts, allowing them to savor the pure beauty of art without the need for excessive contemplation.

“Sachiko Kamiki: Parody” Whitestone Gallery Beijing

2. What changes in techniques do you think have been made, compared to the past?

Kamiki: The production for this exhibition reflects a shift in my mindset. The pandemic served as huge turning point – prior to it, art usually contained a sense of irony, portraying the real world was more positive and glorious. Post-pandemic, the world became somber with a closed-off demeanor. I started to realize that the real world is inherently ironic. Therefore, I began to use bright colors in my work, and I hope people can instill a positive life attitude when they view my creations.

“Sachiko Kamiki: Parody” Whitestone Gallery Beijing

3. Many depictions about the shape of the human body were found in your works. How do you interpret the shape of the body through the abstract transformation? Is this abstract technique influenced by certain schools of art? How do you define your painting style and school of art yourself?

Kamiki: Following the creation of the character, I employ a unique technique by turning the canvas upside-down and painting for a second time on the reversed or inverted character. Through this method of multiple layers, I aim to capture the inharmonious body gestures, adding a distinctive touch to my creations. Interestingly, my painting style doesn't conform to any specific art school. Instead, I invest considerable time in contemplation and occasionally obliterating an artwork, making it one of my distinctive painting styles.

“Sachiko Kamiki: Parody” Whitestone Gallery Beijing

4.The exhibition prominently features images of women, particularly with side-facing profiles. Could you share the rationale behind selecting these images and elaborate on the implications or potential metaphors associated with the choice of portraying women in this specific manner?

Kamiki: The central theme of this creation revolves around women, with a deliberate choice to portray the most representative images of the female form. Opting for the side face as the main painting perspective was intentional, as it captures a perspective not easily seen by oneself.

This choice allows for a genuine portrayal of the character, evoking a sense of quiet ease in demeanor. The resulting perspective adds a compelling layer of interest to the paintings. The implications of these women's characters vary among viewers, enabling individuals to derive diverse inspirations and experiences from the artworks.

Sachiko Kamiki ”Monroe” 2023, 162.0 × 130.5cm, Acrylic on canvas

5. In works like Monroe and Diana, the traits of these characters are shown in the picture ingeniously. How do you extract these elements and turn them into your painting language? And how do you portray their image in these pictures? Are there any specific stories or plots involved?

Kamiki: During the production process, I utilized photos as references, delving into the stories of the women depicted. This approach facilitated the extraction and transfer of their unique traits and elements, allowing me to articulate them through my own painting language.

Sachiko Kamiki ”Apple or orange” 2023, 116.7 × 91.0cm, Acrylic on canvas

6. You have a special suit of color, and possess certain conflicts. How do you use colors in your production? And how do you consider the relationship between color and composition of a picture?

Kamiki: In terms of color usage, I intentionally emphasize creating conflicts and leveraging the effects of contrast. My preference lies in incorporating bright and vivid colors, juxtaposed with softer and darker hues, to heighten expressiveness and visual impact. Considering the interplay between color and composition, I employ contrast and balance to craft visual gradation and rhythm.

Experimentation with diverse color schemes and combinations is essential in determining the most fitting color manifestation to convey the theme and emotion of the artwork. For example, in this exhibition, I introduced fluorescence to the faces of characters. Achieving a harmonious integration within the overall composition required numerous rounds of repainting and amendments.

Sachiko Kamiki ”Alice” 2023, 145.8 × 112.1cm, Acrylic on canvas

7. Excepting colors and compositions, your artwork presented a variety of textures, bringing different arrangements and details, for example your work Alice. Can you introduce your production process and technique to us briefly? And how do you combine different techniques in your works?

Kamiki: In creating “Alice”, I used different techniques and materials to form the rough, granular shading effect similar to resin. First, I applied a base color to the canvas and then used different brushes and tools to create different textures and effects. To enhance the work with enough detail and layers, I experimented with mixed media incorporating paintings, drawings and stickers. By combining and layering different techniques and materials, I try to create a textured, rich and varied image.

“Sachiko Kamiki: Parody” Whitestone Gallery Beijing

8. Some sweet elements appeared in the works of this exhibition, such as the works "Chocolate" and "Honey", what is the special meaning of the utilization of these elements? What is the connection between these elements and these women?

Kamiki: To me, the inclusion of sweet elements in my work symbolizes people's yearning for happiness, satisfaction, and positive experiences. Connecting these elements to women is significant, as women often play roles in conveying love and warmth in society. Sweets, in this context, become symbols of their unique glamour and tenderness. Moreover, the presence of sweets has the power to evoke empathy and trigger memories among the audience.

“Sachiko Kamiki: Parody” Whitestone Gallery Beijing

9. Your production is usually affected by the present social environment. How do you express your life conditions and social environments through artistic creation?

Kamiki: My creativity is influenced by present social environments, I try to express and present the problems and challenges that exist in life conditions and social environments through artworks. In recent years, more and more women in Japan are integrating into and taking their place in the workplace, which is one of the reasons why I have chosen to depict a large number of female figures in this exhibition. I am concerned about the societal perceptions within society. I also hope that my creations could bring people's attention and thoughts about women issues.

“Sachiko Kamiki: Parody” Whitestone Gallery Beijing

10. Are there some common images or symbols used repeatedly in your work? Do these images or symbols have any specific meanings or symbolizations?

Kamiki: In my artistic practice, I intentionally employ recurrent images or symbols. This repetition serves dual purposes – establishing a distinct visual language and style that is uniquely mine and delving into specific themes and concepts. These chosen images or symbols carry multiple layers of meaning and symbolization, offering a visual point of reference and connection for the audience. Simultaneously, they provoke deeper contemplation and varied interpretations, encouraging viewers to engage with the artwork on a more profound level.

“Sachiko Kamiki: Parody” Whitestone Gallery Beijing

11. Do you plan to change the artistic media in the future?

Kamiki: I have future plans to evolve my approach to artistic creation. The intention is to challenge myself and explore new possibilities and expressions within the realm of artistic creativity.

Sachiko Kamiki at Whitestone Gallery Beijing

12. What role do you think Whitestone Gallery has been playing in your professional life? What influence does it have on the development of your creativity? Compared to exhibitions in other regions, what are the specialties of the exhibition in Whitestone Beijing?

Kamiki: Whitestone Gallery has played an important role in my professional life. It provides a platform for displaying and promotion, and opportunities to communicate and interact with other artists and audiences. The exhibition in the Whitestone Gallery has greatly influenced my development of production. It provides opportunities for showing my artworks, so they will be known and appreciated by more. Compared to previous exhibitions in other regions, the exhibition at Whitestone Gallery Beijing has more influence and popularity in the Chinese artistic market, so I can have the chance to get in touch with broader audiences and market, and communicate with local artists and cultures. It is a precious opportunity for me, to expand my influences and horizon of creation.

“Sachiko Kamiki: Parody” Whitestone Gallery Beijing

13. Can you tell us about the production plan in the future?

Kamiki: Rather than organizing numerous exhibitions in a brief timeframe, my future approach involves dedicating ample time to each exhibition, ensuring a thorough and thoughtful presentation. The plan is to invest more time in creating exceptional artwork and effectively conveying my ideas and emotions through the creative process. The primary goal is to ensure that each work authentically achieves the intended purpose of expression. I aspire for my artworks to resonate with audiences, influencing and inspiring people's thoughts in diverse and meaningful ways.

Text From Artisl