My Portfolio

2009, unique artwork

oil on canvas

31 1/2 × 39 1/3 in – 80 × 100 cm

The artwork is signed by the Artist & stamped with the logo of the Artist’s Studio on verso of the canvas

serie “Tokyo Dreamscape : Nocturnal Symphony”

Hiro Ando’s enchanting depictions of Tokyo’s night life, characterized by the infusion of iconic flowers and clouds into the urban landscape, stem from a profound intersection of cultural, personal, and artistic inspirations. Let’s delve into the origins of this inspiration that has become the hallmark of Ando’s work.

1. Cultural Heritage:
Ando’s Japanese heritage serves as a rich wellspring for his artistic endeavors. Japan’s long-standing cultural traditions, particularly its reverence for nature and the ephemeral beauty of cherry blossoms, influence Ando’s inclusion of flowers in his canvases. The juxtaposition of these traditional elements against the contemporary backdrop of Tokyo’s night life creates a harmonious blend of the old and the new, connecting viewers to a deep cultural resonance.

2. Urban Poetry:
Ando’s fascination with Tokyo’s night life reflects an intimate understanding of the city’s pulse. The bustling streets, illuminated skyscrapers, and vibrant nightlife serve as a canvas onto which he paints his urban poetry. The choice to depict monuments or skyviews speaks to the modernity and dynamism of Tokyo, capturing its essence during the nocturnal hours when the city takes on a different persona.

3. Personal Reflection:
Beyond cultural influences, Ando’s canvases are also a reflection of his personal experiences and emotions. The inclusion of flowers and clouds may signify a desire to inject moments of tranquility and beauty into the urban hustle. This could be a metaphorical representation of finding moments of serenity and natural beauty amidst the chaos of city life.

4. Symbolism of Flowers:
Flowers, particularly cherry blossoms (sakura), hold profound symbolism in Japanese culture, representing transient beauty and the fleeting nature of life. In Ando’s canvases, these blossoms may serve as a reminder of the transient nature of the bustling city life, urging viewers to appreciate the ephemeral moments.

5. Dreamlike Atmosphere:
The addition of clouds in Ando’s works introduces an ethereal and dreamlike quality. Clouds, often associated with dreams and imagination, transform Tokyo into a fantastical realm. This might be Ando’s way of inviting viewers to see the city not just as a physical space but as a dreamscape where reality and fantasy intertwine.

In conclusion, Hiro Ando’s inspiration for his Tokyo night life sketches, adorned with flowers and clouds emerges from a deep well of cultural roots, personal reflections, and a keen observation of the dynamic urban landscape. Through his art, Ando invites viewers to experience Tokyo not only as a metropolis but as a poetic and ever-evolving tapestry of tradition, modernity, and the beauty found in the interplay of nature and city life.