news

Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of the Great Eastern Japan
Earthquake.
Being a resident of Miyagi prefecture I and my family where drastically effected
by the recent disaster.

In February, just before the disaster, I received an invitation to exhibit my work at
the Ogatsu Suzuri Craft Heritage Center at the end of the year and was fortunate
enough to be featured in a regional newspaper.
Unfortunately, the facility and surrounding town have been completely destroyed
by the Tsunami.

Soon after the disaster, I went to Ogatsu and could not believe the sight before me.
For a period of time, the emotion and drive to continue my work was completely lost.

Since the disaster and until July ( the current time ) I had been continuously
volunteering directly at an emergency shelter in Ishinomaki.

However, I will soon be leaving the area effected by this horrible disaster.
I hope to start work on my paintings again before the end of the year.

The recent occurrences have left me with a deep and profound sadness but
I still have a desire to move forward.
For now my efforts are focused on slowly getting back to a stable daily life and
continuing to pursue my work one step at a time.

I thank you for your continuing support.

14. July. 2011 Tsukimi Uchikoshi