OCTOBER 19 - NOVEMBER 20, 2020
Yoshimoto’s artwork is engaging on many levels and connects current events and social issues. Born in Japan to Chinese parents, but having grown up in the United States, Yoshimoto explores the convergence of tradition and contemporary society. His work references popular culture in America, China, and Japan. His gouache paintings infuse traditional Japanese prints with contemporary depictions of recent disasters. His graphic style is similar to Japanese Manga, and he depicts stunning, colorful images that incorporate poignant depictions of destruction, both natural and human made. His work includes imagery and emotion often associated with media coverage of such events, including global concerns. Yoshimoto often embeds Godzilla into his work, which he sees as himself, powerlessly witnessing the unfolding disaster and helpless to assist anyone in the path of destruction.
Yoshimoto has experience working as an art therapist/mental health professional in Chicago, IL, as well as teaching. He has worked with various age groups and diverse ethnic populations in both rural and urban settings. He served as an artist-in-residence at various artist colonies across the United States and is currently an Assistant Professor of Art, teaching foundations level courses at the University of Nebraska at Omaha.
Programs at the gallery are partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency. Parkland College is a section 504/ADA-compliant institution; for accommodation, call 217/353-2337 or email accessibility@parkland.edu. For more information on the exhibit, please call the gallery office at 217/351-2485 or visit parkland.edu/gallery.
[Image: Ephemeral Propinquity, gouache on paper, 22 x 30 inches, 2017]