ARTIST STATEMENT -->日本語

Ryoko Goto transforms experiences into art that invites reflection.

Goto creates art that explores universal themes through the lens of her personal experiences. She believes that everything has multiple layers, and she  often demonstrates this by adding warmth to even the saddest themes, offering different perspectives. Her work goes beyond what is visible, expressing not only emotions and senses but also an intangible 'something more.'

At 18, she was deeply moved by Jackson Pollock's work, leading her to New York to explore Abstract Expressionism. Nearly a decade abroad heightened her sense of identity as a Japanese. In 2020, learning about Zen gardens, she felt a natural connection to Zen's simplicity and depth, which now influences her artistic vision.

Goto's creative approach is flexible-she selects materials and techniques that best match each theme, allowing the inherent qualities of each material to shine. Her goal is to convey ideas with strength and clarity, using different methods for each piece. Her ongoing study of Zen inspires her to explore simpler and more essential expressions while allowing complexity to arise when it naturally does.

In 2023, after her father's passing, Goto discovered that the family temple she found comfort in was also a Zen temple. This realization deepened her connection to Zen, inspiring her to explore its principles further and clarifying the essence of her work.

For Goto abstract expression invites viewers to find their own meanings and project personal feelings, thoughts, and memories onto the artwork. This open-ended nature aligns with her wish for audiences to experience her art freely.