CV

KUMI ABIKO CV.

My main interest as a sculptor is in presenting the Japanese cultural traditions, such as custom, belief, spirit, etc, through my figurative sculptures.

Background:
Degrees:  Bachelor of Fine Art – Majoring in Oriental paintings, carvings and sculptures.
                Master of Fine Art – Specialising in Three dimensional design.

Official Qualifications:  Teacher of Art in high schools in Japan.
                                  Interior Designer.

General Background:    Teacher of Art and Interior Design in my twenties and thirties.
                                  Migrated to Australia in 2001. 

Awards and Achievements:    Two times personal exhibitions at Ginza in Tokyo.
                                           Four times exhibitions by my pupils.

Explanation of Sculptures:

"The Bride"  -  A traditional white bridal suit, (Kimono), is symbolic of "virginity".  The white wedding veil, (hood), is hiding "the horns" in her hair which show women's "evil mind", such as spitefulness, greed, jealously, etc.

"Lullaby"  -  In the past the commoner had a lot of children and it fell to the older sisters to take care of her baby brothers and sisters.  The girl carries the baby on her back when she goes to the vocational school.

"Before the Battle"  -  The Samurai gets himself organised, mentally composes himself and elevates his spirit.

"Lost Battle"  -  To the Samurai surrender is a disgrace.  His choice is only to die in battle even though he cannot win or commit "harakiri" (suicide). 

"Maiko/Mizuage Ceremony"  -  It is a ceremony undergone by a "Maiko" (apprentice Geisha) to signify her coming of age.

"Tete-a-Tete"  -  The Patriarch being the main breadwinner of the family controlled who family members married.  This couple could not get the Patriarch's permission so they are going to elope.