FOR 3/7

BRIAN YOSHIMI ISOBE PAINTINGS AT KATHARINA RICH PERLOW

AVV/CD #730549

NEW YORK CITY — “Brian Yoshimi Isobe: aware — New Paintings” is on view at the Katharina Rich Perlow Gallery through April 2. Isobe has been represented by the gallery since 1986 and has had many solo exhibitions here. The artist received his MFA from San Francisco State University in 1981 and continues to show his work regularly and nationally.

The title of Brian Yoshimi Isobe’s exhibition, “aware” (pronounced ah-wah-ray), is a Japanese word meaning “sensitivity or “pathos.” “Mono no aware” addresses one of the main tenets of Buddhism, the fleeting nature of life, experience and beauty.

These new paintings continue Isobe’s use of foliage and water imagery. The recurring depictions of nature that is constantly changing or moving provides the artist with an everlasting challenges.

In this new work Isobe has given thoughtful and deliberate consideration to the mediums (ink, acrylic and distemper), surface supports (silk mounted panels), proportions, format and scale. While the content of these paintings is rooted in both traditional Japanese painting and aspects of Buddhism, ultimately, the paintings manifest themselves as abstract works that speak to many of the canons of contemporary art, particularly and ironically, Minimalism. Brian Yoshimi Isobe has exhibited his work in many museums and art centers nationally.

The gallery is in the Fuller Building at 41 East 57th Street. For information, 212-644-7171.