Fountain of Peace, was originally inspired by a fountain seen by a temple in Japan as you can recognize by the use of natural materials such as bamboo and straw, I "re"created a fountain of my own, symbolizing water as the connection between Peace and Love.

Steps with Hearts and Flowers was inspired by the entrance of a small temple founded by the holy priest Honen (1133-1212), who gave a simple message of equal salvation for all people. Located by the philosopher's path, it is one of my favorite temples for its' feeling of intimacy, simplicity and natural environment. The heart shaped stones are a product of my own imagination…

Kyoto once named the "capital of Peace and Tranquillity" or "Peace to the Bones" still holds a living fabric of tradition. Untouched by the World War II, the city and temples are mostly built with wood, some of which are 1000 years old. The delicate colors of the cherry blossoms against the bright painted wood was truly a delight to my eyes.

The ethereal quality of this watercolor is true to the feeling I got travelling North of Kyoto and finding almost untouched treasures of classical Japan. Sophistication, refinement and simplicity are combined to achieve wonderful ways of living.