Sculpture Exhibition by Keiji Ujiie

Title : Continental Mother
Date : 11-30 July 2009
Venue : Hanna Artspace, Jl. Pengosekan, Ubud, Bali
Artist : Keiji Ujiie

To initiate a new era of creative expression in Ubud, Bali, has been a cherished aspiration for International artiste, Keiji Ujiie. Relocating in January 2007 to Nyuh Kunning, south of Ubud, has given birth to this heart felt desire. Born in Japan in 1951, the sculptor/landscape Architect has successfully accumulated a 25 year body of artistic work to his credit. Typically monumental, large scale works located over sweeping landscapes, city building courtyards and public parks are home to some of his projects. Not only in Japan, but also in Mexico, Belgium, Lebanon and more recently in Sanur, Bali. Continental Mother' is Keiji's debut solo exhibition in Bali, Indonesia. Commencing on the 11 th until the 31 st of July, Hanna Artspace in Ubud, Bali will exhibit 22 sculptures produced over the 2008-09 period. The concept of 'Continental Mother' is his expression of the Balinese landscape. Preferred indigenous materials of choice are Javanese Limestone, Marble and Granite

At home, in his open terrace studio situated overlooking rice fields and the Hindu temple, Pura Dalem, Keiji takes much inspiration. Constant is the trade wind blowing through the fields. Clouds drift gracefully across his vista. The seasonal changes of growth and harvest, the fields of green then returning to open bodies of water. Native birds feed on the crops and ducks tend to the fields. Here there is continuous sensory stimulation. The essence of rural Bali and its cycles of life emit a magical healing quality. “I love to absorb this enduring peace”, says Keiji, “It is an essential part of my creative process.” In silent contemplation he consumes this nurturing energy. This then translates into artistic expression. 'Continental Mother' evolved initially as a mental concept. Keiji deploys no models, studies or sketches throughout this work, using the 'direct carving' technique. He must first venture into the hard substance working his way in to expose the spirit of the stone. Then able to work outwards, he exposes new life. Each individual stone has its own unique feeling retained within its grains and structure. Intuitively Keiji responds to the feeling he receives, through physical intent, form then becomes coherent.
Five individual 'Continental Mother' pieces, 600mm x 400mm in dimension, are the 'stars'of his show. The Javanese Limestone beautifully contains the spatial geometries. Arched legs spread powerfully, mimic some sort of earthly 'rainbow'. Beautifully portioned torsos support full bulbous breasts; emerging like mountains growing up to cosmos. Protruding nipples point skyward, like eyeballs focused on the heavens. The off white Limestone's grain is hand finished smooth, yet remains unpolished, almost glowing, like tender skin, radiating a 'virgin' like quality.
Geometry is the universal language of mathematics; therefore by law of nature all geometries conduct and transmit energy. The bulk of these voluptuous shapes resonate strength and power. His creations manifest into the figurative form. “Rarely if ever do I explore the human form! This is a direct influence of working in Bali; here there is a different spiritual energy. I never get this image in Japan.” confessed Keiji.From 'Mother Gaia' he draws frequencies and via the 'Father' in heaven perceives a language, then through his heart he translates. “The sculptures body is my heart.” revealed Keiji. He part takes in a divine relationship. This is the 'Holy Trinity'. The Mother, the Father and the Divine Child.Therefore it is the human heart, 'The Divine Child', the essential catalyst, through then which and an Alchemy may exist. Accompanying 'Continental Mother' are 17 'trophy' pieces, 400mm x 200mm in dimension, varying from abstract through to figurative form. Barong'; the unique hard Balinese Hindu mystical representation of all that is benevolent in our universe. This sculpture is Keiji's first experience using traditional Balinese sculpting tools. 'God of Rice', honors the cultural significance of rice in daily Balinese rituals and life. 'Topeng' inspired by observing the Master Balinese dancer, Made Djimat. The Javanese marble has qualities, the movement and power of his dance transfers harmoniously into this stone. Keiji likes to travels the world visiting countries/sites that mirror his idea of spirituality. His recent work reflects the essence of Bali, his work is akin to a meditation. It is Keiji's intent that a spiritual energy radiates from within his creations.

By Richard Horstman. 10th June 2009.