Artist: Michiyo Ihara
Snowflakes statement

My drawing process requires just a pencil and paper. It starts in the center of the page and I build a snowflake outward. The work itself tells me when it is done, and I am filled with a sense of awe upon completion. As a child, I drew all the time. I drew long, long trains, carrying fruit, people, and animals, leading into infinity. Now my drawings are inspired by nature. Nature to me has integrity and is my source, and I want my audience to absorb my fascination with it and how it inspires me. I also want my audience to be engaged and participate in my drawing experience.

When I start to draw I start with something small that expands into infinity. From the microcosm grows the macrocosm, so each tiny snowflake becomes a symbol of the entire universe.

People and snowflakes have the same source, that of infinity, and inspire in me a sense of awe. Everything in nature originates in the infinite possibilities of the universe. Snowflakes are a familiar representation of this, appreciated for their uniqueness and diversity. Combining snowflakes with my creative process is the springboard for ever more possibilities.




Artist: Michiyo Ihara
Soul Flowers statement

In the “Soul Flowers" series, I invite viewers into a world where a plant's delicate beauty intertwines with the human spirit's ever-changing nature. Through meticulously crafted pen drawings, I create a visual narrative that explores the profound connection between the fleeting moments of blossoming flowers and the evolving essence of the soul.

"Soul Flowers" is a window into my soul world, where each piece is a testament to existence's dynamic nature. As flowers undergo various growth and transformation stages, our souls experience a continuous journey of renewal and self-discovery. My art captures this essence, revealing life's inherent beauty and fragility.

With each pen stroke, I skillfully immortalize the transient nature of both nature and humanity. My artwork's intricate details and thoughtful compositions evoke a sense of wonder, inviting viewers to contemplate the ever-changing landscape of their souls.

Through "Soul Flowers," I combine creativity, introspection, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. My art serves as a poignant reminder that, like flowers, our souls are in a perpetual state of growth, resilience, and metamorphosis.