Thorns and Swirl

Nakanojo's Saikachi did not fall down even in heavy water, and has protected the devil gate of private houses ever since. Saikachi is a tree characterized by twisted bean fruits and sharp spines, and it is said that bean pods contain saponin and were used to wash horses. It can be said that it also shows remnants of famous horses in Nakanojo and Ichishiro, where there is a record that famous horses were presented to the Imperial Court in the Heian period.

I look at Saikachi, who wears thorns to protect himself, and humans who chose to use tools instead of letting go of their fangs and sharp claws. It is a work that considers human activities in layers with the present while unearthing forgotten everyday life and folklore beliefs.

Exhibition view at Nakanojo Biennale 2023

The cardboard is cut, finished with glossy paint, and applied with gold leaf. It is carefully crafted by hand.