2024

This work was inspired by the death poem of Sugawara no Michizane: *“When the east wind blows, let it awaken the fragrance of plum blossoms. Though your master is gone, do not forget the spring.”* During a meal with my mother-in-law in Ginza, we encountered a stunning single plum blossom arrangement. The moment she softly recited this verse, I felt compelled to express the profound emotions embedded in Michizane’s poetry and the enduring symbolism of the plum blossom.

In this piece, I depict an endearing monk tenderly caring for a plum blossom, intertwining the arrival of spring with Michizane’s plea to *“never forget spring.”* Through the blossom’s delicate fragrance and gentle sway, I hope viewers sense the timeless connection between, as well as the quiet passage of time.