mixed media installation, 2016
Porcelain/chlorite pieces, embroidery thread, peach pitts, mirror and drawing

Exploring the fragile and fantastical spirit and architecture of dreams, 105 Chrysanthemums, uses the visual language of the artist’s grandmother’s dream -a beckoning field of magnificent white chrysanthemums viewed from the childhood porch.  This childhood porch was once filled with plants like chrysanthemums, morning glory and hydrangea - flora that had connections to experiences and memories that family members carried across the Pacific Ocean.

The installation consists of 105 porcelain and chlorite, miniature chrysanthemums seen as lucky talismans –objects that offer good luck and well wishes. The chrysanthemum is seen as a natural and powerful metaphoric ‘character’ and like many other elements of nature in Mochizuki’s work have become a way of presenting signs and calling messages. 

The installation was originally exhibited at the Wakayama Museum in Ginza, Japan curated by Makiko Hara. 

Carpentry: Minoru Yamamoto

Images #1-4 by SITE photography as part of 13 Ways to Summon Ghosts, 2018. Gordon Smith Gallery curated by Kimberly Phillips.