Maya Taki

Bio

I am interested in how form, materiality, and different surfaces can impact the way a
painting is experienced. Primarily working with oil paints and steel, I find that blending these
mediums together allows me to show parts of Japanese culture in a different way. In my
recent works, I have incorporated the use of layering pieces of steel to increase
dimensionality and emphasize each individual part of my designs. Having my paintings go
beyond the wall it is placed upon and into the space in front is an exciting way to combine
my interest in both sculpture and painting.
The bright and polished metal of the paintings and sculptures accentuate the shiny
qualities of the steel in comparison to the matte black wall that lies behind. As a whole, this
exhibition explains how deep the folklore in Japanese mythology goes, with each of the
creatures interacting with one another differently. The central geisha figure gazes down and
reads the book, allowing for the animals to come to life and take up the space surrounding
her. By immersing myself in tradition, I aim for my work to embody fantasy and world
building.
As a Japanese-Canadian artist, I often pull inspiration from historical art forms such
as irezumi and ink drawing. A recurring theme in my work is identity, and the tensions that
come along with being from a mixed heritage. Combining traditional styles and ways of
making art with a contemporary lens has been a way for me to learn more about my ancestry
while also including my own perspective as someone who grew up and currently lives in
Canada.