It is a piece of art titled "stone."
Perhaps it was his deep love for stones that led Shota Matsui to become an artist. He grew up near the Kamo River in Kyoto, and from an early age, he had the habit of picking up stones he liked from the riverbank. While studying sculpture at an art university, he naturally began working with stones. He loved the culture of suiseki, stones that are often displayed on alcoves along with hanging scrolls and bonsai, and he also displayed some himself. Matsui feels spiritual peace in the quiet time spent admiring stones, and his desire to convey the allure of stones to many people is the driving force behind his creative endeavors. Rather than creating objects by using and combining stones, he focuses on maximizing the charm of the stone itself. By deliberately lifting up the stones, usually found at the feet, to eye level by floating them in the air or hanging them on a wall, the viewer's eyes pause to observe each of the stones without even realizing it. Their gravity-defying positioning stirs in the visitors the desire to know "why?" "I wanted to create the impression that heavy stones actually possess mysterious power," says Matsui.
Stones floating in a luxurious space.
The use of vibrant colors is intended to add a new element to the stones. The aim is to combine natural forms with artificial elements to highlight the relationship between the two. Unlike stones, which can exist for tens of thousands or even hundreds of millions of years, man-made materials such as resin will eventually deteriorate due to ultraviolet rays and other factors. This contrast is also one of the intentions of his expression. When asked about the theme of his exhibition at W Osaka, Matsui ponders for a moment before answering "Stones of Value." "Stones can be used to represent something negative, but they can also be positive, like stones waiting to be polished into gems. I want to express that through my pieces." He thought that using mainly acrylic to add vibrant colors would complement the atmosphere of W Osaka entrance very well. “I find it quite interesting that the elements appear to match each other at a glance, but some are stone inside.” Matsui believes that the stark contrast of natural stones against the
luxurious space in which they are placed only enhances their fascination. Stones vary in hardness, color, texture, etc. depending on their place of origin, and this is what makes them interesting. He hopes that this will be an opportunity for people to take another look at the stones that are familiar to them in their hometowns.
A special art experience at W Osaka.
The exhibition will be held at W Osaka, a hotel that eschews traditional luxury and instead embraces innovation and dynamism. Featuring a unique design created under the supervision of Tadao Ando, its chic exterior is filled with various stories and colorful, interesting features. As the only “W brand” hotel in Japan, W Osaka strives to provide luxurious services to meet every customer need based on the concept “Whenever/Whatever.”® The hotel also actively collaborates with artists, participating in Osaka Art&Design this year as well as last year. “We are always seeking collaboration with artists to further enhance the unique and art-filled appeal of our establishment,” says Peter Lucas, the General Manager. He hopes that visitors will experience the charms of Osaka through this
installation in this special year of the Osaka-Kansai Expo.
