azuma makoto's botanical sculpture blossoms amidst colorful fireworks

Azuma Makoto’s installation echoes nature’s fleeting beauty

Japanese artist Azuma Makoto, known for his creative botanical sculptures, fancies experimenting with different landscapes and backdrops. From the deep blue of the oceans to the frozen corners of Japan, and even venturing to outer space, he puts intricate bouquets in center stage, presenting floral beauty from unparalleled perspectives.

For his latest work, the artist returns to the terra firma, with a floral sculpture that merges the ephemeral beauty of flowers with the fleeting glow of fireworks. Titled HANABI, the installation is made up of 50 different types of flowers, all of which were sourced from across Japan. The flowers are arranged in a cascading formation, creating a colorful and lively display. The sculpture is a reminder of the fleeting nature of life, both human and floral. Just as fireworks quickly fade away, so too do flowers. But in their brief time, they both bring beauty and delight to the world.

all images by Shunsuke Shiinoki, courtesy of AMKK

makoto’s sculpture is A Celebration of the Impermanence of Life

Fireworks have long symbolized the essence of Japanese summer, adorning the night sky and captivating onlookers during seasonal festivities. Although the pandemic temporarily subdued these celebrations, this year has seen the return of nationwide fireworks festivals, marking a positive turn of events.

In this context, Azuma Kamoto has intertwined the magic of fireworks into his latest artwork. He has connected the short lives of flowers with the rapid dissipation of fireworks. In doing so, the botanical artist has made art that shows short-lived moments in a strong and emotional way.

The bright colors of the flowers represent the beauty of the natural world, while the ephemeral nature of the fireworks symbolizes the fleeting nature of life. This impermanence is intentional, and it is meant to evoke a sense of beauty and fragility. By creating these sculptures, Makoto is not only celebrating the beauty of nature, but also exploring the deeper meaning of impermanence.