Dec. 11 - Last week I helped unveil a new statue called "Avatar" by renowned Japanese-American artist Isamu Noguchi at the United States Embassy. Noguchi was a versatile and influential artist who assimilated the cultural heritage of his American mother and Japanese father in his work. Isamu Noguchi worked in many genres, from large-scale landscape projects to fine detailed drawings. He designed furniture, gardens, playgrounds and theatre sets, and monuments.

Ann and I were delighted to see one of his most famous works from the "Akari" series displayed at the recent Suntory Museum exhibit on Japanese washi paper. Noguchi reinterpreted the traditional Gifu paper lantern as a new sculpture design, bringing it into the 20th century and making it an attractive symbol of light for a new generation.

Some of the artist's most active years coincided with a period of difficult U.S.-Japan relations. He survived that period and managed, despite the tensions, to achieve renown in both countries as a visionary who promoted the artistic values that tie us together. Since Noguchi lived parts of his life and produced great work in each country, I thought it was fitting that his sculpture should occupy a prominent place in the Embassy Chancery, where so many of us work to strengthen U.S.-Japan relations.

At the unveiling, Ann and I enjoyed meeting the Japanese and American trustees of the Isamu Noguchi Garden Museums in New York and Takamatsu. We, along with the American Embassy employees, are grateful for their generosity in loaning us such a beautiful sculpture.

Until next time,

Jim