TRUE CHARACTER : With the development of social media, a human society with more and more diversification and possibilities appears. The virtual world offers everyone an imaginary place of freedom and anonymity. However, in the real world, each individual plays different roles in this society: relatives, lovers, friends, doctors, teachers, etc. Under the constraints of social definition, do we have the dilemma of self-expression and the crisis of trust while having a broad platform for expression? Is the personality of each individual affected and limited thus? What is true self character?
This is the first special art project of duo artists Tatsuhito Horikoshi and Takashi Hara in China, through which expresses their strong individual artistic style and personalities. Tatsuhito Horikoshi paints delicate portraits of emotional figures in pure colors and soft tones. These youth portraits are usually placed in front of a simple background, becoming protagonists who seem to want to convey complex emotions. Takashi Hara expresses Yin and Yang in the joy of life through his iconic hybrid animal roaming and exploring in his colorful world. The words on his painting seem to be the mumbling from his animal figures, expressing his self- encouragement and the hope to society. Both artists convey a sense of trying to fit into their surroundings that they do not quite fit into.
The two artists believe that each person is unique with many layers. Many of these layers are behind a mask, seemingly hidden from others. However, most of our true characters are already there inside, growing like the roots of a tree. Sometimes, we just need time to talk to ourselves. We shall water it, let it come out, or keep it underneath.
