[3331 Open Residence] Axial Descent

Artist: Douglas Easterly

Douglas Easterly's 6-week residency at 3331's Open Residence program concludes with an exhibition titled "Axial Descent".  The work continues Easterly's fascination with the pivotal relationships between life and death, masculine and feminine, technology and nature, along with other features of the human condition. His production techniques include watercolour, drawing and casein - a 5000-year-old medium using cow's milk. In addition to traditional techniques, Easterly is equally dedicated to employing and developing his skills with digital technology - computer programming in particular.  Many of the works in this exhibition utilize Java and Logo scripts, as well as a custom software application called "CatsEye". This software rapidly aids the process of pattern design and was produced at Victoria University of Wellington in New Zealand where Easterly is an Associate Professor and Deputy Head of the Design School.
 
In addition to studio production, Easterly used the residency to explore Japan's rich culture of art and design practices spanning Ukiyo-e, Nihonga, contemporary art, illustration, manga and animation. Pouring through a variety of books, he also visited several museums, galleries and cultural centres, meeting many arts professionals during the few weeks leading up to this exhibition. Undoubtedly, aspects of these experiences may be witnessed in many of the works on display in this exhibition.

Artist Profile: http://residence.3331.jp/en/artists/002795.html