SAMURAIS GATE
SAMURAIS GATE
Mt. Koya, Japan
I ventured into the Okunoin Cemetery — 1.2 miles of stunning, honored grounds. Even in the dark of night, it didn’t feel eerie like other graveyards might. There was a lightness to the space. Perhaps that is because there are no actual bodies buried there. Instead, the stone mounds and ornate structures serve as memorials to those who have passed.
Samurai’s Gate captures one such memorial that honored a famed Samurai warlord named Mizuno Katsunari (1564-1651). The sight of this gate drew me in, but I felt even more connected when I later learned the story behind it.
Mizuno Katsunari fought in many battles throughout his life, and his victories eventually earned him a castle. Mizuno then broadened his legacy by building up a town around the castle that would one day become Fukuyama City. I love that this humble gate memorializes such an illustrious figure. The trees on either side are strong and unwavering, like the two great accomplishments of Mizuno’s life — both of which required a great deal of artistry.
The amount of time and energy Samurais dedicated to their craft inspires me. My goal is to exhibit that same dedication in my photographic journey. Perhaps that is why I intuitively felt compelled to delve deep into this composition and to keep working through the challenging shoot.
Thousands of people wander through Mt. Koya every year to connect with something greater through meditation, prayer, and internally connecting with departed souls. When they leave, they take some of that energy with them and leave the excess on the mountain for others to find. That thought brings me a sort-of peace, not unlike the feeling I had walking around Okunoin Cemetery late at night — all alone beside the comforting spirits that wandered with me.
There is so much about that place that moves me, but its truest mystery is the way it can seemingly hold the past and present in one breath. That unique perspective is a powerful thing.
-
EDITION SIZE: 45 + 5 Artist Proofs
PRINT TYPE: Dye-Transfer Chrome Print16x20” Gallery Float -or- Flush Style: $1300
16x20” Museum Framed Style: $160024x30" Gallery Float -or- Flush Style: $2700
24x30" Museum Framed Style: $320036x45" Gallery Float -or- Flush Style: $4600
36x45" Museum Framed Style: $540048x60" Gallery Float -or- Flush Style: $7400
48x60" Museum Framed Style: $8400 -
GALLERY FLOAT STYLE: print is backed with 1/4” Sintra and a 3/4” deep metal inset frame attached to the back, to provide a floating look from the wall.
GALLERY FLUSH STYLE: has a 2” deep wood Flush frame, available in Black, White, Cherry or Walnut.
MUSEUM FRAMED STYLE: a 2” deep by 3/8” wide moulding frames the print, with a 1/4” float between the print and the frame.
FINISH YOUR DESIGN DURING CHECKOUT:
On all prints - select between a Matte non-glare print -or- a Semi-gloss print.
Select a Black or White Sintra backing.
On Flush Mount Style - select a Black, White, Cherry or Walnut Flush frame.
On Museum Framed Style - select between: Smooth Black, Black Grain, Smooth White, White Grain, or Brown Grain.See Collector Info for pictures and further details.
All pieces come with general hanging hardware, and instructions on how to hang and care for your artwork.
CUSTOM OPTIONS: If you would like to discuss Custom Finishing Styles or Sizes, contact us.
-
Your order will be confirmed via email within 24 hours and then put into production.
Every piece is custom made to order. As a result, all orders are final.
We work with the top printer and fine art finishers in the country to produce the finished works and impeccable quality is of the utmost importance. With that said, the Dye-Transfer Chrome Print and finishing process is a sensitive one and does require a timeline to produce.
TURNAROUND TIME: GALLERY FLOAT & FLUSH STYLE pieces take 4-5 weeks and MUSEUM FRAMED STYLE pieces take 5-6 weeks.
Tracking information will be provided for you when your artwork ships.
SHIPPING CHARGES: The packing, handling and shipping charges to the U.S. have been included into the listed price for your convenience.
INTERNATIONAL COLLECTORS: Please contact us prior to ordering for a price quote on shipping your print or framed piece to your location. Recipients of international orders are responsible for all duties and taxes.
PACKAGING: Pieces are expertly packaged in custom boxes and wood crates to ensure the safe arrival of your artwork. It is the responsibility of the recipient to notify us within 48 hours of any damage incurred during shipping.
SECURE CHECKOUT: The site is protected by SSL. Your customer information is private and credit card information and order details are secure.
Designed to evoke shades of emotion
Aristotle believed that colors were sent from heaven through celestial rays of light - and his science wasn’t too far off. It’s incredible that every color we see - from the spicy red of autumn leaves to the beckoning blue of a glacial lake - is a unique wavelength of light. In our everyday lives, the science of color is almost always secondary to the emotion of color - the meaning and feelings we derive from different tints and shades. We connect colors to the elements. We connect them to stories. We connect them to signs for the future and memories of the past. And in all of this, color enriches our lives, reminding us of the vividness of the world and the light within us all.
Science tells us about the power of beauty
Studies show that focusing on beauty and serenity in nature creates lasting positive effects – increasing happiness, positive social interactions, and a sense of meaning and purpose in life. In one study, 95% of those interviewed said their mood improved after spending time outside – noting a decrease in depression, stress, and anxiety. Time in nature has also proven to increase our ability to pay attention and live in the present moment. Nature is vital to our well-being, but not all of us have a beautiful setting outside our windows. That’s why we need art.
Bring beauty into your home
Scientists have confirmed that viewing scenes of nature in art can positively impact your health and well-being almost as effectively as visiting a beautiful environment. Art allows us to enjoy our morning coffee at a temple in Kyoto and cuddle up with our pets by the stunning coast of Maui. To spend our days in the bustle of the city and return home to the tranquility of a breathtaking view. Fine art photography is more than an image - it is your calm in the chaos, an uplifting breath on a troubling day, and the stillness to embrace your most authentic emotions and nurture your best self.
