On a recent journey to Japan, I visited Nara for the first time, a city where people and deer coexist in a peaceful and spiritual rhythm. I spent days immersed in its monumental forests, sketching constantly, inspired by local folklore and the quiet majesty of the sika deer.

Nature, Spirit, and Symbolism

Nara is more than a sanctuary for free-roaming deer; it’s a place where spirituality and nature deeply intertwine. The atmosphere offered space for reflection on the connection between humans and the environment, a recurring theme in my work.

As I explored, I began to visualize how these sacred deer, ancient shrines, and forest legends would shape future creations, blending the natural world with deeper symbolic meaning.

The Legend Behind the Paintings

According to local mythology, the deity Takemikazuchi arrived in Nara around 768 CE on the back of a white deer. Ever since, these animals have been revered as sacred messengers and forest spirits.

It is said that when the forest was threatened, the Spirit of the Forest could manifest as a tree or a deer to protect the land. Travelers who entered the forest might encounter this spirit, who would offer wisdom and guide them through a path of balance, transformation, and spiritual insight.

The Artworks

🔹 Echo of the White Messenger

A reflection of the myth of Takemikazuchi, this piece symbolizes sacred presence, protection, and the balance between the divine and the earthly realms.

🔹 Twilight Messengers

Inspired by ancient forest guardians, these masked deer emerge beneath the moon’s gaze, silent guides channeling the unseen energies of nature, and inviting us to listen to the hidden wisdom of the world.