Gallery4Culture
2006-2007 Season

Saya Moriyasu
Floating Worlds
October 5 - 27, 2006

reception OCTOBER 5, 2006, 6 - 8 p.m.

The term "Pictures of the floating world," refers to the Buddhist idea of life being a floating or sorrowful world. By extension, that world is heaven. The longing for that perfect place far away and the escapism of landscapes remains a tenet of humanity. Moriyasu's three new large chandelier forms, filled with miniature worlds of delicate ceramic, are challenging new works, but still evoking the beauty of her signature style.

Inspiration for this work comes from Japanese Ukiyo-e prints. During the 1800s, the merchant class in Japan had low social standing, which was offset by wealth. Purchased works of art were seen as a way to gain social status. Parallels to our own consumption-to-gain-status and escapism are a part of Moriyasu's interest in the decorative arts. She continues to explore themes of class, consumption and beauty.

A reception will be held on October 5, 2006, the first Thursday of the month, during the Downtown Artwalk, from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. The public is encouraged to attend. The exhibition will run from October 5 - 27, 2006.

Gallery4Culture is located within 4Culture offices at 101 Prefontaine PL S, at the corner of Third and Prefontaine, in the Tashiro/Kaplan Building. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., closed government holidays; the gallery is open and free to the public. For more information about this program visit http://www.4culture.org/publicart/gallery/info.htm or call 206.296.8674.