I have continued painting in pursuit of a fragment of truth. For me, each work is a trace of that exploration. In recent years, my creative process itself—the act of painting and the traces it leaves behind—has become the artwork.

In the Kasendō Hall, located within the grounds of Entoku-in Temple, Kinoshita Chōshōshi is enshrined. During the late Momoyama to early Edo period, Chōshōshi relocated near Entoku-in out of admiration for his aunt, Kita no Mandokoro (Nene), who resided there. As a poet, he led a refined and artistic life. Chōshōshi deeply admired Saigyō, a monk of the Heian period who dedicated his life to the art of waka poetry.
In Saigyō’s treatise on poetry, there is a passage that reads:

"When a rainbow appears, vast space is adorned with colors; when the sun shines, vast space brightens. Yet vast space itself is neither colorful nor bright." Saigyō reflects in the same way: "Even if I compose many poems, my heart remains like vast space, leaving behind no trace."

Even if this story was a later creation, it seems to beautifully reflect Saigyō’s attitude toward the pursuit of truth.

My works have yet to reach the state of "leaving no trace" (satori, or enlightenment) that Saigyō speaks of. However, following in the footsteps of those who came before me, I have titled this exhibition "Traces" to signify the marks left in the process of seeking truth through creation.
I am grateful for the opportunity to hold a solo exhibition at Entoku-in, a place deeply connected to many historical artists and poets.
I warmly invite you to view my work.

Tatsuhiro Suizu