2015, 8 Editions
stainless steel polished
11 4/5 × 27 3/5 × 15 7/10 in – 30 × 70 × 40 cm
The artwork is signed by the Artist , carved with edition number and date under the artwork
serie “Stainless Steel Tales of Pandasan”
The “Hello Pandasan” sculpture by the Japanese artist Hiro Ando unveils a fascinating narrative that transcends the confines of traditional artistic representation. In this iconic piece, Ando breathes life into Pandasan by uniquely framing its presence—a subtle yet profound exploration of the intersection between reality and imagination.
At the heart of the inspiration lies a profound connection to Japanese cultural symbolism and the timeless allure of the panda itself. Pandas, revered in Japanese culture for their qualities of gentleness and elusive beauty, have often been associated with nature, harmony, and spiritual depth. Ando draws upon this rich cultural backdrop to infuse “Hello Pandasan” with a resonance that transcends mere artistic expression.
The choice to depict Pandasan emerging from a box, with only its head and paws revealed, evokes a sense of playful whimsy and surprise. The concept mirrors the traditional Japanese art of origami—where intricate forms are crafted from simple materials and unfolded to reveal unexpected beauty. “Hello Pandasan” becomes a sculptural origami, unfolding before the viewer’s eyes, inviting them to engage with the essence of surprise and anticipation.
the multifaceted nature of existence and the layers of perception that envelop our understanding of the world. The box, in this context, is a symbolic cocoon—a vessel that holds the potential for revelation. Pandasan, emerging from within, becomes a metaphor for the unfolding of hidden wonders, an embodiment of the unexpected joys that can be found in the most unassuming places.
Ando’s choice to present only the head and hands of Pandasan intensifies the connection between the sculpture and the viewer. By focusing on these expressive elements, the artist prompts a deeper emotional engagement. The head, with its endearing features, invites empathy, while the hands reaching out from the box convey a sense of connection and shared experience. “Hello Pandasan” transcends the boundaries of a traditional sculpture; it becomes an interactive encounter, sparking a dialogue between the viewer and the enigmatic creature emerging from the confines of the box.
The sculpture also resonates with contemporary themes of curiosity and discovery. In a world inundated with constant stimuli, “Hello Pandasan” stands as a visual testament to the joy of exploration and the allure of the unknown. By framing Pandasan’s emergence as a greeting—an endearing “hello”—Ando infuses the sculpture with a sense of welcoming, breaking down the barriers between art and observer.
In essence, the inspiration for “Hello Pandasan” lies in the fusion of cultural symbolism, artistic innovation, and a deep-seated desire to create a transformative experience for the viewer. Ando’s sculptural origami challenges conventional perceptions, inviting individuals to embrace the unexpected and find joy in the discovery of beauty, one “hello” at a time. The sculpture serves as a reminder that art has the power to transcend the ordinary, inviting us to explore the extraordinary in the simplest of gestures.
December 27, 2017
