Japanese Garden
Original Painting by Karin Lanini Arthofer
2023, Mixed Media on canvas
“Bloom” Series
65 x 65 x 4 cm
(25” x 25” x 1.5” in)
Inspiration
The painting "Japanese Garden" from my "Blossom" series draws inspiration from the charming stories my son shared with me about his experiences in Japan. Through his eyes and words, I envisioned and then created a Japanese Garden, where each brushstroke evokes the tranquillity and beauty of those far landscapes. A Japanese Garden is not just a physical place but a spiritual space, a microcosm reflecting Zen philosophy and the harmony between man and nature.
In the painting, a range of pink hues represents the lush flora typical of Japanese gardens. I aimed to capture the delicacy of cherry blossom petals falling gently like dreams, floating softly to the ground, creating a sense of serenity and grace. The stones along the paths, polished and smooth, reflect the sunlight, creating shadow plays that dance among the bamboo. The arched bridges symbolize life's passages, linking the past to the present and inviting the observer on a journey of introspection and discovery. The stones, symbols of stability and permanence, stand out in a constantly changing world.
The choice of colours in "Japanese Garden" is equally significant. The deep blue-grey of the stones and the soft pinks of the flowers intertwine, creating a visual balance that mirrors inner harmony. Empty spaces are intentionally left to provide breathing room and contemplation, symbolizing the importance of emptiness and silence in our hectic lives.
Through my son's stories, I sought to capture not only the visual beauty of Japan but also the depth of emotions these places can evoke. "Japanese Garden" is thus a celebration of Japanese culture and a tribute to the special connection my son developed with that world—a place where nature and serenity blend harmoniously. It is a call to slow down, observe, and appreciate the beauty in the simplest and purest details of life.



