Hi! My name is Margaret Kasahara, and I have 3 pieces in the show: “Notation 33-20”, “Notation 12-21’, and “Notation 22-21”.
I call my small mixed-media works on paper, Notations. I am taking note of thoughts and feelings, specific events, and moments in time. They are visual poems, and the images are distilled to their essence. The Notations are layered in meaning and are often metaphorical.
My work is an expression of identity and what it means to be alive in this place, in this time. I’m responding to everyday life and I often incorporate familiar objects and materials into the work. The work is grounded in the present and the pieces in this exhibition are in response to current and on going events.
“Notation 33-20” – is one in a series of pieces using fire and burning in response to worldwide wildfires, and to social and political passions ignited in protest and unrest. From beneath the ashes, positive change can grow.
“Notation 12-21” – is from a group of work metaphorically expressing thoughts on broken sociopolitical systems and broken bones in a personal, national, and global context – contemplating the need for mending and healing.
“Notation 22-21” – and several related pieces, were initially created in response to the violent shooting deaths in Atlanta and Boulder. The gold-leafed rice grains express the preciousness of each individual life and the idea (paraphrasing Zen master, Thich Nhat Hahn) that all of the world is reflected in a grain of rice – from the sun and water, the earth, and humankind.
Throughout this group of Notations, there is the thread of hope, and it is with hope that by being true and by sharing my perspective I can create connection and contribute to our collective journey.
Thank you so much for coming to the show and thank you for taking the time to listen…!
