1.Tell us what you do and your beginnings.
I’m a visual artist who studies the perception of awe in nature, focusing on the recognition and presence of the sublime in fleeting moments. I crystallize specific, transitory aspects of natural systems in my paintings and sculpture as a means to establish a non verbal dialogue with viewers. Often I create idealized portraits of the landscape that capture evanescent moments as they quickly pass, this is my ode to nature and an elegy to that which may disappear forever in our fragile environment.
The work is not so much a record of my experiences but more about inviting the viewer to heighten their awareness of our relationship to the natural world. I spent my childhood in a Buddhist temple in Japan and also in a redwood forest in Northern California, both of which cultivated a heightened appreciation and attention to natural systems.
Japanese culture is very unique in their regard for nature as sacred, recognizing the non-material enlightenment and harmony that comes from communing with the natural world. I draw inspiration from Buddhism as well as quantum physics, which stresses the impermanence and interdependence of all things.
Miya Ando, visual artist from New York, United States. Photo © Yiru Chen
2.What are your favorite museums in the world? Why?
I love the Benesse Art Sit and Chichu Art Museum in Naoshima, Japan. Other favorites are SFMOMA, MOCA, LACMA in California. We have so many incredible institutions here in New York, Socrates Sculpture Park, The Asia Society, The Noguchi Museum, The Guggenheim, Whitney, New Museum, MET. It is difficult to select a favorite!
3.How important are social networks in your business? And which platform do you prefer and why.
I’m not too focused on social networks, I find the format for viewing artworks challenging, in particular with experiential artworks. I primarily use Instagram and enjoy connecting with people through this app.
© Miya Ando
4.What are your future projects?
I’m developing an exhibition at LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art) of my cloud (Kumo) paintings on metal. In these works I am investigating the idea of Mono No Aware, an appreciation and solemn recognition of the impermanence of all things.
I am interested in slowing down time in our fast-paced lives to recognize the presence of the sublime in our surroundings. Most important for this forthcoming exhibition is creating opportunities for non-verbal, silent dialogues of interconnectivity between nature and viewers.
© Miya Ando
5.To create greater engagement among museums, artists and professionals, do you have any advice for cultural projects such as #MuseumWeek?
I love outdoor sculpture and creating opportunities for public engagement.
© Miya Ando
