##Highlights:
1. Emi Kusano’s new series, “The Altar of Bonnō,” combines artificial intelligence image-making processes, traditional photographic techniques, and digital painting to explore human desire in a surreal and sensitive manner.
2. The series delves into the themes of transience and the digital self, drawing inspiration from elements of Japanese culture, Buddhist traditions, chaotic streets of Tokyo, and pop art aesthetics.
3. By creating altars out of desires, Kusano invites viewers to contemplate the integration of their desires rather than judging or suppressing them, drawing on Buddhist teachings and practices.
##Summary:
Emi Kusano’s latest series, “The Altar of Bonnō,” is a captivating blend of technology and tradition that offers a deep exploration of human desire through a lens of retro-futurism, anime, and science fiction influences. The artworks in the series serve as portals into the inner workings of the subjects’ minds, presenting a visual narrative that transcends time and space. Through the integration of Buddhist concepts and Japanese cultural elements, Kusano creates a reflective refuge from the materialistic world, urging viewers to confront and observe their desires without shame.
##Opinion:
Kusano’s approach to artistry in “The Altar of Bonnō” is both innovative and thought-provoking. By merging cutting-edge AI techniques with traditional themes, she challenges societal stigmas surrounding desires and offers a fresh perspective on personal introspection. The series not only showcases Kusano’s artistic prowess but also serves as a reminder of the complex nature of human consciousness and the importance of embracing and understanding our desires. Overall, “The Altar of Bonnō” stands out as a commendable exploration of the intersection between technology, culture, and personal growth.
Editorial content by Quinn Taylor