hiroshi hayakawa

Graphite on paper, 23.5" x 18", 2020.

Another drawing that was technically challenging. I worked on this piece on and off over a 3 month period and I am satisfied with the result. I learned about the way Alphonse Mucha designed some of his paintings. He placed various pictorial elements at the cross sections of diagonal lines and 2:3 ratio subdivision lines. I also explored the repetitions of circular patterns created by various lines in this composition. I applied those design concepts and strategically placed my pictorial elements in various relationship to each other, for example the bubbles in the air, directional lines created by the angles of her arms, the pleats of her dress. This type of design strategy might not be easily detected at a casual glance, but they really solidify the compositions.

This drawing captures my model at a moment of a kind of epiphany when everything stops in space and time. The ephemeral existence of bubbles and the fleeting beauty the model embodies are symbolically united at this very moment. She freezes in the midst of this innocent act of blowing bubbles, realizing something extraordinary is happening, in a state of daydream.

Private collection

Drawing Magazine, "Strokes of Genius 13" Competition, winner (Honorable mention), 2021.

15th International Art Renewal Center Salon competition finalist, 2021.

Portrait Society of America International Portrait Competition Exceptional Merit Award, 2023.