An exhibit of new work by
NORMAN TAKEUCHI
“Some years ago, as a way of coming to terms with my ethnicity, I began integrating into my predominantly abstract paintings images from traditional Japanese woodblock prints to illustrate the concept of duality – of being Japanese and Canadian. This became, and continues to be, the focus of my work. I still make references to the internment camps because it is never far from my mind – a period that has shaped who I am – but my work now also pays tribute to the strength and determination of the Japanese Canadians who have been able to rebuild their lives and once again become productive members of Canadian society. The paintings represent an uneasy search for harmony and balance between the two worlds but ultimately they are a celebration of my Asian heritage. I have learned to embrace the two cultures.” – Norman Takeuchi
The Exhibition
The Artwork
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Born in Vancouver, some of his earliest memories are of the interior of BC where his parents were forced to relocate during World War II. Ultimately graduating from the Vancouver School of Art in 1962, he went to London, England, to concentrate on painting, and again in 1967 with a Canada Council grant. In 1996, he left a design career to focus on art. He has since participated in many solo and group exhibitions. His work is represented in permanent collections of the Royal Ontario Museum, Canadian War Museum, Ottawa Art Gallery, Canada Council Art Bank, City of Ottawa, Carleton University Art Gallery, and in private collections in Canada and abroad.
