The East Hawai’i Cultural Center’s newest exhibition, “Naoko Tosa’s New Media Art: Reconceptualizing Traditional Japanese Theater” is a collaboration between EHCC and the University of Hawai’i at Hilo Humanities Division and Art Department.

The work on view is inspired by traditional Japanese visual and performing arts, including Sansui (ink monochrome painting), Rimpa (decorative painting of the 17th and 18th centuries), Noh (classical theater of the imperial and samurai classes, typically refined and austere) and Kabuki (a more emotive style of drama featuring extravagant costumes, props, and expressiveness).

Artist Naoko Tosa brings these traditions to the intersection of art and science. Originally trained as an engineer, Tosa is a pioneer in the field of Cultural Computing, a form of media that encapsulates the creativity of culture, the unconscious, and software.

Tosa’s exploration of this relationship can be seen in “Zeami Noh: Izutsu,” a four-part video installation on view that uses the latest technology to express the sense of impermanence, sadness, joy and compassion that humans feel from the transitions of life. The installation features frenetic dancing and four images displayed using the movements of masked Shite and Ikebana flower arrangements.

The exhibit, which will be on view from December 2 through January 26, opens on at 6pm on Friday, December 1. Accompanying the opening will be a variety of events including Taiko drumming and Koto performances, a modern tea ceremony, and modern ikebana.

For more information, visit ehcc.org or call 961-5711. The EHCC is located at 141 Kalakaua Street in Hilo. Current gallery and office hours are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Friday. The gallery is also open on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

 

Photo credit: EHCC