Trained as a washi craftsman and artist, Wataru Hatano’s work reintroduces washi, devoted towards keeping the traditional art alive. While studying Art & Design at Tama Art University in Tokyo, Wataru used washi as his canvas, which led to a fascination for the material. As a result, Wataru started to apprentice with the Kurotani Washi Cooperative and after 20 years in washi production, Wataru opened his own atelier. Combining artisanal knowledge and a sensitive minimalist approach, he puts the strong traditional paper to use as a construction material in his layered paintings. Using soil, pigments, acrylic & oil Wataru's paintings have intricate textures that transform the surrounding space into a meditative environment.
Exhibitions
Xiaoman, Taipei
Yuanbai, Hangzhou
Forestone (拂石軒)
Porch Gallery, California
La Maison des Arts Contemporains
Le sentiment des choses, Paris
Maud and Mabel, London
Wa.gallery, Osaka
Gallery Yamahon, Kyoto / Iga
Gallery on the hill, Tokyo
Toukyo (桃居), Tokyo
Fuuro, Tokyo
Kit, Kyoto
evam eva
Education
1995 - Tama Art University, BA Painting (Oil Painting)
