Satoko Aoki: Unseen Sparkle H515×W728×D25mm

2026
Mixed media
Acrylic paints, Japanese mineral pigments, pigments, resin, canvas

This work features multiple white, round-faced birds—the artist’s original characters, “Tori-san”—soaring amidst countless geometric motifs. The composition transitions with a large gradient from an ecru space at the top to a deeply expansive, turquoise-blue, sea-like color field at the bottom.

Around the Tori-san, geometric triangles, diamonds, silhouettes of houses and trees, leaves, flowers, and swirling lines densely cluster, radiating across the entire canvas as if exploding. Each of these fragmented motifs symbolizes things the artist usually struggles with, yet carries and hides within their heart. The background, transitioning from calm tones at the top to deep blue at the bottom, can be interpreted as representing such internal complexities and the fluctuating emotions that sometimes feel like rough waves.

As indicated by the title “unseen sparkle,” this work conveys a paradoxical message: that "sparkle" actually resides within weaknesses and things one dislikes, which are usually invisible and even desired to be hidden. As the artist's comment suggests, when faced with something one cannot do, no matter how negative it feels, believing in and accepting one's current self, transforming it into something positive, and overcoming it in one's own way—this proactive narrative is visualized by the countless motifs flying with Tori-san.

Technically, by applying the "tsutsugaki" dyeing method to create three-dimensional lines through squeezing, a unique texture is achieved that, while flat, appears semi-three-dimensional when viewed up close. Furthermore, parts are colored with Japanese mineral pigments and illuminated with resin, adding depth and brilliance to the entire surface. The materials themselves physically embody the theme of “unseen sparkle.”

【Artist's Comment】

The motifs flying alongside Tori-san, the original character depicted in this work, represent things the artist usually struggles with and hides.

“When faced with something you cannot do, no matter how turbulent and negative it may be, believe in and accept your current self, transform it positively, and overcome it in your own unique way.”

This is the message I imbued in the work.

The work utilizes various materials, applying the "tsutsugaki" dyeing technique to create three-dimensional lines through squeezing, partially coloring with Japanese mineral pigments, and illuminating with resin. Although it is a flat work, it presents a semi-three-dimensional appearance when viewed up close.