The works of Kenichi Obana
Japanese artist Kenichi Obana creates wooden sculptures of masked men, shown in different situations, from the ordinary and familiar activities – watching TV, for instance – to bizarre scenarios that seem to anticipate the climax of their enigmatic stories. The most intriguing, unexpected and at the same time ironic element in the works is the mask itself, which contributes to the mystery as a symbol of deliberately hidden identity, thus generating multiple interpretations.
The clothing and gestures are perhaps the only hints that indicate the affiliation to a social group, the beliefs, inner conflicts and frustrations, the age and the behavior we may expect or consider when decoding the narrative. There is also a constant state of tension and a mixed feeling of confidence and awareness of defeat, as these unknown protagonists may have done or are about to do something forbidden or unacceptable. We see them revolt, then repent, being confused and isolated.
Beyond the intention of anonymity lies the desire of self-control and a need of self-protection in a society that condemns and penalizes each action perceived as unsuitable or incorrect. However, on the contrary, the inability to identify the characters can refer to the process of uniforming thoughts, reactions, emotions, of losing individuality instead of preserving it.
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All images © Kenichi Obana