Salt plays an important role in both the natural environment and the human body. For artists, it can also be an element of creation and at the same time represent the meaning of important memories in life.
Japanese artist Motoi Yamamoto wanted to transform his grief over the death of his sister from brain cancer at the age of 24. I used the existing material "salt" on hand to create it. Salt is not only needed for daily consumption, but also represents certain meanings in Japanese funeral ceremonies. The bereaved family will sprinkle salt on the guests who come to express their condolences. On the one hand, it is to drive away evil spirits, and on the other hand, it is a symbol of purifying the heart.
Human life is like salt. Birth means crystallizing into salt, and death means melting. Although the form has changed, the essence remains the same and will not disappear with the change of form. Just like our bodies, they return to nature after death.
InMotoi’s creations, the huge tracks are like mazes. Hedrawn it by simulating a human brain. Each stack is a stack of longings, and each rugged and winding road is a path of memories. Salt, which is easily changed by the environment, is like life and cannot be repeated. So cherish every moment more.
To create with such difficult materials requires concentration and physical strength. At the same time, it is also necessary to accurately grasp the soft and highly malleable characteristics of piles of salt. AndMotoi Yamamoto has done it all. The details of every corner, arc, and line are mastered very finely.
Some people may also be thinking, after using so much salt, what will happen in the end? After the exhibition, the artist will invite the public to put the salt into jars and pour it back into the sea. Let these elements return to nature.
