#ColonizingGazes: From Landscapes, Cyberscapes to Mindscapes

About

Inaugural exhibition for the launch of The Roastery @ H Foundation for the Arts and the first solo exhibition of the artist in California!

The art of bonsai, originating in China as “penzai” and introduced to Japan in the 12th century, evolved across centuries into an emblematic form of Zen Buddhism and samurai refinement. In Japan’s Meiji to Taisho periods, bonsai was repurposed as a nationalist icon and propaganda instrument, embodying the complex interplay of cultural identity and aesthetic tradition. Horisaki’s *#InstaBonsai*, grounded in rigorous research, scrutinizes this colonial legacy, examining how nature is not merely appreciated but idealized and manipulated to align with cultural narratives. 

About The Roastery @ H Foundation: 

The exhibition is supported by the H Foundation and curated by Ann Shi and by who The Roastery initiative is created. This opening marks the launch of “The Roastery” as a vibrant incubator for emerging artists, providing a platform for innovative artistic exploration and interdisciplinary dialogues. Through curated exhibitions, residencies, and collaborative workshops, The Roastery aims to foster experimentation and creative development, empowering young artists to push boundaries and redefine their practice. H Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization focusing on supporting art and artists of the diasporic Asian communities or those whose work navigates the ideas of Asia. 

The program emphasizes mentorship, connecting new artists with established figures in contemporary art, and encourages diverse, boundary-pushing approaches. By providing access to resources and a supportive community, The Roastery @ H Foundation aspires to nurture talent and contribute meaningfully to the broader cultural landscape, making it a valuable launchpad for artists like Horisaki, whose practice poses an alternative perspective for the traditional ideals.