In a grand celebration of artistic exploration and cultural confluence, Galerie de Nuage proudly presents its 2024 Inauguration Exhibition, "A River and A Dream." The exhibition, running from August 1 to August 12, 2024, features the evocative works of Japanese artist Kazu Saito, along with Nicola Kloosterman, Dong Sheng, and Jule Waibel. This diverse group of international artists comes together to engage in a dialogue about the transient nature of human experience, offering a unique cultural perspective.
The exhibition draws inspiration from the metaphor of rivers and canals—natural entities that have long nurtured cities, cultures, and civilizations across the globe. This theme serves as the backdrop for the exploration of ephemeral and deeply personal experiences, allowing viewers to traverse different worlds through the unique lenses of these four artists.
Galerie de Nuage's exhibition "A River and A Dream"
Image courtesy of Galerie de Nuage
Kazu Saito: Nihonga's Ethereal Bridge Between Tradition and Nature
Among the featured artists, Japanese artist Kazu Saito's work stands out for its profound connection to the traditional Japanese art form of Nihonga. Born in Kyoto in 1960, Saito has spent decades refining his craft, creating works that are not only visually stunning but also deeply meditative. His art suspends the viewer in a timeless moment, allowing a rare glimpse into the artist's inner world—a world where beauty and liberation are paramount.
Saito's artistic philosophy is deeply rooted in the unique atmosphere of Kyoto, a city where centuries-old craftsmanship and breathtaking natural landscapes coexist in harmony. He likens this environment to a "mystical world," where tradition and nature intertwine to provide the perfect canvas for artistic exploration. Walking through the streets of Kyoto, Saito often encounters individuals sketching in quiet corners, their presence seamlessly woven into the fabric of everyday life. This delicate balance between tradition, nature, and art is the foundation of Saito's continued journey in Nihonga, a journey that has earned him prestigious accolades, including the Gold Award at the Shinwa Art Exhibition and the Grand Prize at the Kyoto Arts and Crafts Exhibition.
Saito's works in "A River and A Dream" invite viewers to step into this mystical world, where the boundaries between the physical and spiritual dissolve, and where each brushstroke carries the weight of centuries of artistic tradition.
Kazu Saito, Flower Wind, 2024
Mineral Pigments on Washi Paper
16” x 12.5”
Image courtesy of Galerie de Nuage
Exploring Diverse Perspectives: Kloosterman, Sheng, and Waibel
Alongside Saito, the exhibition features the works of three other artists, each bringing their own distinct cultural and artistic perspectives.
Nicola Kloosterman, an analog collage artist from Johannesburg, uses found imagery to create mesmerizing artworks that explore themes of (in)visibility, perception, and feminine power. Her collages, often made from vintage paper and textiles, challenge traditional notions of beauty and identity, making her work a powerful commentary on the modern world.
Dong Sheng, an abstract painter from the Pearl River region of China, draws on his experiences during the Reform and Opening-up period of the 1980s to create works that reflect the immense societal shifts of that era. Sheng's paintings are known for their sensitive, timeless quality, capturing fleeting moments of beauty and emotion with a masterful touch.
Jule Waibel, a Berlin-born artist now based in New York, uses oil paint to depict strong, independent female figures. Her vibrant, dynamic works celebrate the multifaceted nature of femininity, blending personal symbolism with bold, expressive color palettes. Waibel's art is a celebration of the modern woman, capturing the essence of empowerment and freedom in every brushstroke.
About Galerie de Nuage
Newly founded with established roots in New York and Hong Kong, Galerie de Nuage is dedicated to representing exceptional contemporary artists to a global audience and emerging collectors. We work with Artists whose work deeply resonates with the environment, embodies a profound appreciation for culture and recognizes the essence of humanity. The gallery encourages artists to take bold creative risks within their practice while contributing to an active dialogue of how art elevates our best living experience.
Address: 545 W 23rd St. Ground Fl. New York, NY 10011
Exhibition Period: Aug 1 – August 12, 2024
Opening Hours: Tues – Sun, 1030am - 6pm, Monday by appointment
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