The Sea

Kimura Kentaro stated: “I do not want my work to be merely art for art’s sake. My goal is to create works that blend seamlessly into everyday life.” His directly carved stone sculptures are frequently characterized by a pleasant tactile quality and smoothly rounded forms. With patience and determination, he grappled with hard, heavy stone as if infusing it with new life through his hands and physical being. Commissioned by this museum, and produced and installed in 1980, this monumental work has a height of 310 cm. Touching the sculpture’s surface while looking up at it is an overwhelming experience of both beautifully uneven textures and imposing volume. Kimura was not only active in Japan but also sought opportunities to show his work abroad, earning significant acclaim. At an international art exhibition in New Delhi, India, he was awarded the Grand Prize, the highest honor. (H.M.)