Yomei No Mon Nikko, Japan 19th-20th century

Editor: Joseph Smith's "Yomei No Mon Nikko, Japan" presents a really ornate architectural structure. I’m struck by how the paint seems to mimic the texture of the building. What can you tell me about this piece? Curator: The work showcases a fascinating dialogue between artistic labor and architectural craftsmanship. Smith’s technique draws our attention to the human effort in representing, and perhaps even fetishizing, the labor-intensive construction of the gate itself. How does this influence your perception of it? Editor: It makes me think about the Western gaze and the consumption of Japanese culture. It's more than just a pretty picture, it's about power. Curator: Exactly. We must consider how the materials and the act of painting serve as a form of cultural appropriation and consumption. What do you make of that relationship? Editor: It's a lot to consider – seeing the art as a material transaction changes everything! Thanks for your insight.