Satoko Okuno. Whispers of Kindred Souls

About

Whispers of Kindred Souls features ceramic sculptures and paintings that embody guardianship, tenderness, and humor, creating a bridge between the everyday and the extraordinary. Through her work, Okuno explores the profound dialogues between herself and the creatures she conjures, ranging from familiar animals to whimsical, imaginary beings.

Central to the exhibition is the concept of communication and connection. Most pieces are titled with parentheses, symbolizing the ongoing conversations and observations between the artist and her creations. These parentheses act as subtle signals, inviting the audience to engage in this intimate exchange, where each creature serves as a guardian or friend, offering solace and understanding.

Okuno’s art serves as a tender coping mechanism, transforming everyday emotions and deep-seated traumas into something accessible and comforting. Her guardians stand as friendly and calm sentinels, fostering a safe space for reflection and interaction. The interplay of humor and vulnerability imbues the work with a unique warmth, making each piece not only a visual experience but an emotional refuge. Whispers of Kindred Souls is a testament to the healing power of art and the comfort found in imagined companionship. Through her sculptures and paintings, Okuno creates a sanctuary where both artist and audience can find peace, guided by the gentle presence of her kindred souls.

Satoko Okuno's artistic vision is anchored in the portrayal of animals and mythological creatures, drawing inspiration from various sources such as her two cats, encounters at the zoo, and ancient art forms like Greek pottery and Egyptian sculptures. Her vibrant mixed-media paintings, adorned with impasto textures, and glazed stoneware breathe life into these creatures, establishing them as guardians within her art and inviting viewers into a comforting and safe realm. This profound exploration of guardianship is rooted in Okuno’s Japanese upbringing, steeped in the cultural richness of Shintoism—the belief that all things, ranging from natural materials, animals, and humans alike, have a spirit. Having grown up with traditional Japanese sculptures of guardian animals, often placed in front of shrines to bring safety and protect inhabitants, she recasts those animals as central characters in her modern-day sanctuaries, providing solace and gentleness in a world often laden with life's traumas.