Under the Cherry Blossoms - A Year in Japan series Print

This illustration is for my series "A Year in Japan" of which there are 12 artworks - one for each month. It was created using Copic markers on watercolour paper. This series captures everyday scenes in Japan in an attempt to convey the Japanese phrase 物の哀れ 'mono no aware'. This refers to the ephemeral, transitory nature of the world, which in turn evokes a greater appreciation for things which are quick to disappear, such as cherry blossoms. The scenes I portray are fleeting moments in time, where the figures, objects and light will only be in that exact state for a moment, never to be repeated. Furthering this concept, each piece also represents a different month of the year, highlighting the passage of time through the seasons. The works all feature a lone man with his back to the viewer, giving a glimpse into the life of a faceless stranger. The style I used was inspired by Studio Ghibli animation and traditional Japanese woodblock prints.