2017, Edition of 8
Resin FiberGlass Painted & Varnished
51 1/5 × 37 2/5 × 37 2/5 in – 130 × 95 × 95 cm
The artwork is signed by the Artist , carved with edition number and date under the base
serie “The Miniature Saga : A Playful Palette of Petite Marvels”
Hiro Ando’s “Pandasons” sculptures, intricate and whimsical, stand as a testament to the artist’s ability to infuse playfulness into his work while maintaining a deep connection to cultural elements. Inspired by the panda, a symbol of peace and gentle strength in Japanese culture, Ando’s Pandasons evoke a sense of harmony within their glossy, varnished forms.
The series, aptly titled “The Miniature Saga: A Playful Palette of Petite Marvels,” reflects Ando’s fascination with the intricacies of nature and his commitment to expressing these details through meticulous craftsmanship. The choice of pandas as the central theme not only aligns with the artist’s Japanese heritage but also taps into the universal appeal of these beloved creatures.
Ando’s Pandasons are not merely representations of pandas; they delve deeper into the concept of miniaturization, each sculpture composed of numerous smaller pandas. This deliberate use of scale conveys a narrative of interconnectedness and unity, suggesting that strength emerges not only from the individual but also from the collective.
The glossy colors applied to the sculptures serve a dual purpose. On one hand, they add vibrancy and vitality to the artwork, capturing the viewer’s attention and creating a sense of joy. On the other hand, the reflective surfaces invite contemplation, encouraging the audience to explore the layers of meaning embedded in the piece.
In the context of Ando’s broader body of work, “Pandasons” emerges as a delightful divergence from the more serious and contemplative themes found in his other series. It showcases the artist’s versatility, demonstrating his ability to navigate between profound cultural narratives and lighthearted, imaginative expressions.
Ando’s inspiration for the “Pandasons” series can be traced to a fusion of cultural reverence for the panda, the artist’s innate playfulness, and a desire to explore the potential of miniaturization in art. Through these sculptures, Ando invites viewers into a world where the boundaries between reality and imagination blur, encouraging them to find joy in the intricate details of life.
The “Miniature Saga” encapsulates Ando’s dedication to infusing art with a sense of wonder, making the ordinary extraordinary through skillful craftsmanship and a touch of whimsy.
