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Kannon-ni (from the series Tape-estries)
Kannon-ni (from the series Tape-estries)
Kannon-ni (from the series Tape-estries)

Kannon-ni (from the series Tape-estries)

Artist (American, 1945 - 2017)
Date2009
Mediumchromogenic print, masking tape, archival enhancing medium
DimensionsImage: 47 1/2 × 29 1/8 in. (120.7 × 74 cm)
Frame: 46 × 27 1/2 × 2 in. (116.8 × 69.9 × 5.1 cm)
ClassificationsPhotograph
Credit LineMuseum purchase, 2015
Object number2015.12
DescriptionMale figure dominates composition at center, wearing a jeweled crown that includes multiple heads. Figure is standing on clouds and has right hand open at side with left arm bent at elbow and left hand holding an object. Figure is covered from waist to ankles in drapery with additional draping of torso. Figure wears a jeweled necklace with blue and red stones, bracelets with blue stones, and other jeweled pieces at waist and hanging from lower garment.
Text Entries
Nagatani has been working on his Tape-esty series since 1983. The process begins with a color photograph to which he selectively applies masking tape, often covering the whole surface in the translucent material. This translucency is appropriate to his subject, the Buddhist bodhisattva Avalokitesvara (known as Kannon in Japanese Buddhism), who is associated with compassion and salvation.
The Buddhist bodhisattva Avalokitesvara (also known as Kannon, Kwannon and Kanzeon Bosatsu) can take many appearances and forms, including male or female. The manifestation Kannon is the central form of the bodhisattva and is associated with compassion and salvation. The title “Kannon-Ni” means Kannon Number 2.

 

Nagatani has been working on the works he calls Tape-estries since 1983. The process begins with a photographic image made as a chromogenic print to which the artist selectively applies masking tape, often covering the whole surface in the translucent material. The finished piece is then coated with an archival enhancing medium (Golden brand fluid matte medium and Golden brand polymer varnish with UVLS) to aid in adhesion and preservation. The earliest works from the 1980s have not shown signs of flaking or deterioration and the pieces appear to be stable. See object file for additional information.
On View
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