Self-portrait Japan
Varvara Dmitrievna Bubnova (Russian: Варвара Дмитриевна Бубнова) was a distinguished Russian painter, graphic artist, and pedagogue, celebrated for her mastery in lithography. Born into a noble family in St. Petersburg, she was deeply immersed in an atmosphere of poetry and music from an early age, which significantly influenced her artistic and intellectual development. Bubnova's education spanned from the Drawing School of the Society for the Encouragement of Arts to the St. Petersburg Academy of Arts, where she was an active member of the avant-garde group "Union of Youth" alongside prominent figures like Mayakovsky, Malevich, and Goncharova.
Her journey took a dramatic turn in 1923 when she moved to Japan, marking the beginning of a transformative period where she not only embraced Japanese art forms like suibokuga and Sumi-E ink drawing techniques but also significantly contributed to Japanese cultural life through her work and teachings. Her unique approach to art and education left a lasting impact on Japanese arts and culture. Among her notable works inspired by her experiences in Japan are "Young Violinist" (1942) and "Village Street. Japan" (1953), showcasing her fascination with Japanese life and aesthetics.
The later years of her life were spent in Sukhum, Abkhazia, where she continued to create vibrant and expressive works, demonstrating a remarkable adaptability and evolution of her artistic style throughout her life. Her works from this period, such as "Behind the Green Door" (1972), highlight her ongoing exploration of color and form. Bubnova's legacy extends beyond her artworks, as she played a crucial role in promoting Russian literature in Japan, contributing to a deeper understanding and appreciation of Russian culture among Japanese audiences.
Bubnova's artworks are part of major collections domestically and internationally, showcasing her diverse talent across various mediums and subjects. Her influence on both Russian and Japanese art scenes underscores her position as a bridge between cultures, celebrated for her artistic innovations and cross-cultural contributions.
For collectors and experts in art and antiques, Varvara Dmitrievna Bubnova's works represent a unique fusion of Russian avant-garde principles with Japanese artistic traditions, making her a fascinating figure whose pieces are a testament to a life spent transcending cultural boundaries. To stay updated on new sales and auction events related to Varvara Dmitrievna Bubnova's works, sign up for updates and immerse yourself in the legacy of this extraordinary artist who effortlessly blended the best of two worlds.
Hideaki Kawashima is a Japanese artist who lives and works in Tokyo.
After graduating from the University of Tokyo, he underwent two years of Buddhist temple training before beginning his career as an artist in 2001.
Hideaki Kawashima uses portrait painting and self-portrait masks to show the ambiguity of human life. His characters with expressive eyes express a spectrum of emotions: fear, desire, anxiety, longing. Yet these emotions are ambiguous. Kawashima brings touches of folklore, mythology and surrealism to androgynous faces.
