Artist 338
Inada Ikuo
Wood Carving
sculptor
Ikuo Inada (1986) is a Japanese sculptor who specialises in wooden sculptures that reflect meditative states and often personify sleepiness and drowsiness.
The Japanese artist carves his works meticulously out of wood creating realistic figures engaging with soft shaped surfaces. These can be feather pillows, comforters, or soft hoodies. All melded out of wood creating distorting effects of softness.
His subjects are often ambiguous, often half-hidden away.
Ikuo Inada Is influenced by Renaissance carvings and how the sculptures reflect expressive wrinkles and folds despite their stone foundation.
His work draws on how due to the formidable and work culture in Japan, where hard work and perseverance lies at the core of Japanese mentality his sculptures subvert. This context makes his sculptures feel far more intimate. This softness is a private state often only shown to those closest to you. It marks a moment of intimacy that draws the viewer in.
It almost feels like you have joined a kotatsu table and get to share in the warmth it provides.
For more follow the artist on Instagram:
@inadaiko
Sources consulted:
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