34 Gallery Artist: Kira Risugawa - 6x Winner
"Fortitude" SUBMISSION: "We Fall Down, But We Get Up"
"I believe that fortitude is, in a way, about overcoming a battle with oneself.
Hardships often come in succession, but resenting others will not stop the flow of time. The only path forward is to face everything head-on. The sun will always rise, and tomorrow will come. This is the natural order of things, and we cannot help but stand up again.
The world depicted in this artwork captures a moment where we have no choice but to move forward with resilience—an image imprinted on me through past films, dramas, and novels. It is a scene that came to my mind instinctively in response to this theme."
"Metamorphosis" SUBMISSION: "The Human Insect Chronicles"
"When I first envisioned this theme, I have continued to pursue the image that came to my mind. This work represents the conflict between a young girl in her formative years and society, as well as the self she protects and holds onto within.
A butterfly clearly shows us its own transformation as it undergoes metamorphosis three times—from egg to larva, pupa, and finally, adult. Humans may appear uniform in appearance, but they grow and develop in almost the same way. I have no way of knowing the realities of the butterfly’s world, but I believe that in the process of human psychological growth, one’s development is greatly influenced by the “nest” of society and the environment in which they live. "
"Adoration" Art SUBMISSION: "Total Adoration"
"The theme of “Adoration” felt like a vast and multifaceted word, evoking profound meanings for me. The one word that seemed to encompass them all was “Love.” An invisible presence that everyone should revere, I envisioned this word as a beacon of hope reached through meditation, prayer, and the culmination of human actions, guiding my creative process.
From the radiant light she holds in adoration, countless doves take flight as symbols of peace, while she simultaneously bathes in both the brilliance and the shadows it casts. Through the gaps in the rays, glimpses of gathered people and blooming flowers emerge. The very energy of admiration and desire released from the universe within her becomes the force that shapes and manifests the object of adoration."
"Solitude" Art SUBMISSION: "In my solitude"
"From such an inspiration, one of my creative themes is a series titled 'Midnight Fountain.' The process of a girl growing up involves carrying hope and anxiety in the midnight spring that exists deep within her, struggling while she grows toward the outside world. This journey itself is radiant, as she, though a lonely princess in her own kingdom, bravely governs herself.
I created this work specifically for this open call. It represents a personal sense of security within the spring of solitude, yet it does not remain there—hope and liberation rise above it. It may be her darkness, but once light is cast upon it, the entire world radiates with rich colors."
"Navigating the Shadows" SUBMISSION: "Let My Shadows Dance to My Rhythm"
"In the end, I feel that the most important thing is to somehow take in nutrition and maintain health, even when I have no appetite. It's challenging because that's often easier said than done, but I keep in mind that balance between body and mind is essential. – I realize that human emotions have no clear boundaries. When happiness continues, I start to worry about when it will end. The same goes for fear—it's important to feel that fear has an end, which means hoping for the light ahead. Experiencing these kinds of feelings greatly influences my life and my own creations."
"dreamland"SUBMISSION: “Dreamland Again”
"Fortunately, I have never experienced sleep disorders. In my case, I believe it stems from my tendency to prioritize things I like and want to do while I am awake, though this also puts pressure on my financial situation. — I also believe that pursuing dreams is very important. Concentration, increased motivation, goals, and expectations—all of these become driving forces in life.’
Additional Works
The Artist
Art I: "Unsigned
Art II: "Eve in Eden"
