In Praise of Shadows: Jun’ichiro Tanizaki and Modern & Contemporary Art
Curated by Mehves Lelic
Academy Art Museum, Easton Maryland
This exhibition In Praise of Shadows is based on a 1933 essay by Japanese novelist Junichiro Tanizaki.It explores the aesthetics of shadows and celebrates the ambiguity and subtlety of color, shade, texture and tone. In his insightful words, he expresses, "Were it not for shadows, there would be no beauty," emphasizing the enigmatic and subtle nature of shadows.
By examining Tanizaki's observations on darkness as a source of sumptuousness and beauty, this exhibition challenges the historical archetype that depicts light as ethereal, good, and angelic, while associating darkness with brooding and somewhat devilish connotations.
Through a considered selection of works by distinguished artists such as Stephen Antonakos, Kate Breakey, Kottie Gaydos, Cleve Gray, Kerry James Marshall, Louise Nevelson, Jules Olitski, Kikuo Saito, and others, the exhibition offers a profound exploration of the multifaceted utilization of darkness in art from the early 20th century to the present day.
A recurring theme in Tanizaki's essay is the comparison between East and West, with his profound appreciation for the subtleties of Japanese culture. In parallel, this group of artists shares similar concerns and aesthetics, making their works resonate with Tanizaki's vision and creating a harmonious dialogue between cultures.