Copyright Japi HonooJapi Honoo (1968) was born in Central Italy and now lives near Venice but her relationship with Japanese culture and aesthetic is outstandingly strong, intimate and genuine and reflects in her artwork.
Art historically speaking there is a significant divide between the Western world and the Japanese. Whereas it was regarded as important for artists in the Western world to present images that were spatially correct, Japanese artists were instead concerned with colour, textures, patterns and producing very flat images. To the Japanese it was very much the decorative and aesthetic element that took pride of place.
This is also reflected in Japi Honoo's work.
Copyright Japi HonooThis image for instance is a very successful modern interpretation of the traditional close-up motif of two lovers in a close embrace.
Copyright Japi HonooIn this image eroticism is evident with the partial state of undress but the long bamboo stick can also be read as a phallic symbol.
Copyright Japi HonooThis image remains in the tradition of the lady investigating herself which is so often a motif in traditional shunga artwork.
Copyright Japi HonooI think this image is interesting because traditional shunga images often show bunched, decorative kimono material and very little skin, apart from abnormally large genitalia. However, in her image, Honoo has used the kimono material in a see through fashion which is an interesting development on how we see the genitalia.
Older works of Honoo are perhaps even more interesting if you are into art which uses symbolism.
Copyright Japi HonooThis image which is called "Generate" of the woman entwined with an egg is so powerful and stunning in its simplicity. The cross reference between eros, creation and birth is powerful and beautiful at the same time.
Copyright Japi HonooLinking and using flowers in connection with erotica is a longstanding tradition which numerous artists use. Honoo's image leaves you wondering if the spirit of the flower is a woman or whether the essence of woman resembles a flower.
Copyright Japi HonooI had to include this image - it is so strong. The figure cradling the new life in its arms is clearly a woman ... or is it? The masculine is strongly represented - which is evidenced by the phallic shape of the figure. The figure embodies the union of female and male and cradles and protects the result of that union.
Lastly I want to show you one of the most recent works of Honoo´s which is her "Ladyswan". This image is stylistically speaking very different from her earlier work. It still retains links with the Japanese style although it is far removed from the flat decorative work she has done previously.
Again Honoo works with themes not unknown to erotic in "Ladyswan". Animals and erotic is a whole interesting subject which I will return at some point in the future in my blog but for now let it suffice to show you this exquisite picture...
Copyright Japi HonooAll images are copyright Japi Honoo and permission has kindly been granted for reproduction in this blog.
Click here for more information and to see other works by Japi Honoo.
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