Dan at Work in his Studio Utilizing a unique method of digital imaging, Japanese artist Dan OBANA creates a contemporary imagination of the traditional method of hanga block printing.  His works, to which he refers as digital hanga, are complex, multilayered photographs of analog materials.  OBANA’s synthesis of the digital and analog realms provides not only a thoughtful introspection into the development and role of technology in our contemporary lives, it references the age-old tradition of the multi-layered techniques used to produce original hanga prints.  Over time, OBANA believes that the continued refinement of his methods will ,in fact, lead to limitless artistic possibilities, echoing the deep visual effect created by his complexly constructed works.

Although each layer, added one upon another with Photoshop with varying degrees of opacity, is representational in nature, the repetition of image upon image creates an abstracted effect.  In this fashion, textures and lines overshadow figurative content, with a delightful effect.  Compositional elements come to the forefront, exposing works that are highly engaging, thought provoking and intellectually stimulating.  

For the most part, the colors OBANA chooses are muted in tone, yet texturally rich.  As the elements of his works combine, they create an almost urban ambiance.  Slate gray, black, white and stones work together to recall the architectural elements of the city, while his bustling rhythmic movement is reminiscent of the busy pace of its inhabitants.  Lines intersect and diverge, further invoking this incidental cityscape, suggesting the appearance of vital infrastructure.

Although there is an undercurrent of the industrial in both the content and construction of OBANA’s works, he has underscored the importance of emotional and intellectual sensitivity both as an artist and as an individual.  Through his continued development as an artist, OBANA strives to think deeply, feel freely and grow infinitely.  Regimented yet expressive, vulnerable yet strong, Dan OBANA proves to be a study in contrasts both in art and in life.

Dan OBANA lives and works in Tokyo.

www.hobana.cocolog-nifty.com
www.Art-Mine.com/ArtistPage/Dan_OBANA.aspx

Intersection - Digital Print on Canvas 47'' x 35.5'' Illusion - Digital Print on Canvas 35.5'' x 47''