CICA Museum, M Gallery
May 22 – 26, 2024
2024.05.22 – 26
A Massage From Medusa
The main piece of this exhibition is inspired by ancient Greek mythology. The tale of Medusa and Pegasus symbolizes the “Life Force” at the core of my artwork. Medusa, once a beautiful goddess with golden wings upon her back, transformed into a monster following a fateful encounter with Poseidon. Several years ago, I crafted a decaying yet beautiful one wing to represent her duality, Yin & Yang.
The subsequent narrative unfolds as follows: At the moment of Medusa’s decapitation, creatures such as Pegasus, coral, and scorpions were born from her blood. Witnessing the cycle of life emerging from death filled me with profound emotion. Eternal joy and hope resided within this process. Over the course of several years, I added another wing and the mane of a horse to express the transformation of Pegasus. This project is far from over. I aspire to recreate the mythical world and convey the message embedded within it to the contemporary era.
The current world faces instability with natural disasters, wars, and political divisions. Many lives have been lost. It is my hope that the artworks in this exhibition will serve as a tribute to the departed souls and bring a ray of hope to those of us living in the present moment.
Nobuko Tsuruta is a fiber artist based in New York City whose work is exhibited internationally. Nobuko’s artwork is an exploration of the vital life force in all materials and beings. Her weaving practice encompasses installation, experimental fashion, and performance.
Born in Kamakura City, Japan, Nobuko earned a degree in economics from Rikkyo University before working in the fashion industry for eight years.
After moving to New York City, she discovered SAORI weaving and began her career as a fiber artist. Nobuko is a certified SAORI weaving instructor and currently guide many individuals in their weaving journey.
“When I moved to New York City, I found myself struggling to fit in and find my own worth in this foreign land. However, encountering SAORI weaving, where there are no rules and mistakes are embraced as part of the artwork’s uniqueness, completely transformed my life. I hope to share the energy I’ve gained from this experience with all of you. Everyone and everything is a one-of-a-kind existence. So, spread your wings freely.
