Katsura, Kyoto

My favorite aspect of this print from AMUM's collection is how the artist created a shadow effect on the walkway and the side of the staircase in the foreground. I also find it interesting that the artist hints at two pathways in the background. One pathway appears to be a smooth, winding path while there is a stony path alongside it. The stony path continues opposite side of the wall that leads to a staircase. I think the two paths are much like the paths we travel in life. Some smooth and winding while others are stony and rough. Although we sometimes tend to choose a smooth, easier path, choosing to take a stony, more challenging path can sometimes bring us to a door of opportunity leading to a place of serenity, much like Katsura, Kyoto, a residential district in Kyoto, Japan that is the renowned location of the historic garden Katsura Imperial Villa.

–Anita Huggins, Administrative Associate I, Art Museum