Tortoise will host a Studio Cue produced event on January 28th featuring artist, Tasya van Ree. The event will debut a Takara Bako designed by Tsugu Wada and imprinted with art by Tasya Van Ree.
Below is a brief interview on their thoughts about their latest project together. Please join us from 1 pm to 4 pm on January 28th, Sunday!
The Studio Cue x Tasya van Ree Takara Bako will be available for purchase and a live art demonstration will take place.
Why did you want to design a takara bako?
TW: Takara bako is a Japanese tradition that I wanted to share with Americans. Traditionally it is a way to hold your treasures, and something you keep for a long time. It is not just a box. It is art. Life is art. Everything is art. So I wanted to express this tradition as an art.
Why did you want to put your artwork on a takara bako?
TVR: To pronounce the presence of what beauty already existed.
What is the title and meaning of your takara bako artwork?
TVR: The artwork/drawing is based on connection and infinite consciousness with yourself. It represents the sacred exchange of love and affection with your own understanding of the universe and the mindfulness of your exchange with it. Stamped in gold, it radiates the color of wisdom and reflection.
How long have you been an artist? What kind of art are you creating now?
TVR: I was born with an Artist’s spirit. I’ve been working quite intimately with graphite + colored pencils. Working on a smaller scale and on a daily basis to understand the vortex of discipline and imagination.
What made you want to do an event at Tortoise?
TVR: Tortoise is a poetic dream. I wanted to be a part of that dream.
Why did you want to work with Tasya and have this collaboration?
TW: Tasya has a Japanese-American background and I thought she was the perfect person to express this message of the ‘takara bako’ to American people. She’s also a great artist. In the future, we’d like to do more projects together.
How does Japan influence your art? Can you give us an insight into your heritage and connection to Japan?
TVR: My Japanese lineage carries a big influence in my art. I can feel it through the profound energy behind my creativity and within the undertone of my precision and stillness. I was born and raised in Hawaii. My Father is Japanese and Mother is Dutch. My Japanese heritage was very prevalent throughout my childhood and remains a strong force in my today. I identify with the practice of value and tradition, and hold a warm place in my heart for the culture and all of its conceptual structures and impressions.
We have carried Studio Cue and GOLDA products for several years. What led you to work with Studio Cue, Keiko and Tsugu?
TVR: We have a deep love and respect for one another, from the beginning. I am honored to align with such beautiful and pure souls.