The image is a work by Hiromi Hashimoto.
When you hear "stone," you might strongly associate it with materials for sculpture and architecture. However, it's actually a very appealing subject for two-dimensional art. The shapes and patterns of stones are all created by nature, and their unique textures, formed over long periods of time, are perfect as motifs for paintings and prints. Stone art, with its weighty yet serene quality, lends a special presence to a space and stimulates the viewer's imagination.
Stones are surprisingly unique.
Even the stones we casually step on have unique expressions when observed closely. Their colors, shapes, and patterns—everything is a one-of-a-kind creation of nature. In fact, there are three main types of rocks: igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic, and when further categorized, there are over 4,700 types! This incredibly rich variety is surely the reason why they continue to inspire artists.
Should I draw it realistically? Or abstractly?
There are various ways to express art with the theme of stone. One can realistically depict stones using watercolor or pencil drawing, or one can boldly abstract the patterns and textures of stone, expressing them with free imagination.
For example, if you meticulously paint the smooth pebbles by the river, you can create a work that evokes a sense of the passage of time and tranquility. On the other hand, an abstract painting that utilizes the beautiful patterns of marble or agate can be seen as an attempt to reconstruct the natural mystery that stones possess. Both realistic and abstract art have their own unique appeal and stimulate the imagination of the viewer.
Art that evokes a sense of "time"
Stone is a perfect material for themes of "the passage of time" and "memory." Works inspired by ancient murals and patterns carved into steles evoke a sense of the weight of time. Furthermore, art depicting the relationship between matter and time is created by expressing the weathered surfaces of stone and the brilliance of minerals.
For example, while there are works that symbolically depict the presence of stones and rocks, such as René Magritte's "The Pyrenees Castle," surprisingly few artworks focus on "the stone itself." However, stones gradually change their shape over many years, continuing to evolve slowly. By incorporating this process into art, we may be able to feel the "flow of time" and "the workings of nature" that we don't usually notice.
Stone art that blends seamlessly into your interior.
Art featuring stones as a motif is characterized by its calm colors and simple forms, making it easy to blend into any interior. In particular, works based on monochrome or earth tones are well-suited to Japanese-style rooms and minimalist spaces. Simple yet impactful, they serve as an accent that refines the atmosphere of a room.
Stone art, which is inorganic yet evokes the warmth of nature, will bring a quiet sense of comfort to your room.
Even stones that we usually see without a second thought reveal their profound charm when approached as art. By enjoying the expressions of stones through the eyes of an artist, we may rediscover the beauty of nature that we have overlooked until now.
The image is a work by Eliza De Foues (Eliza De Foues Kikuchi).
