10,000 Times A Day (All Day) 

This ink drawing on paper, '10,000 Times A Day (All Day),' was created by Nakagawa Soen, who lived from 1907 to 1984. At first glance, it appears spontaneous, almost effortless. But let's consider what it takes to achieve this effect. The artist uses a brush, loaded with ink, to make decisive strokes. There’s no room for hesitation. The control required comes from disciplined, repetitive practice. Think of it as a form of labor, where the hand and mind are trained to act in perfect unison. The ink itself contributes to the drawing's character. Its density and flow determine the texture of each line. The absorbent quality of the paper also plays a crucial role, creating subtle gradations of tone. Nakagawa Soen engages with a rich tradition of calligraphy here, one that emphasizes the meditative quality of art making, and seeks to find meaning in the mundane. By focusing on process and materials, we recognize the depth of skill and effort embedded in this seemingly simple work.