Stone Speaks with Artist, Moeko Maeda

Erupt, and let yourself go

Mar 21, 2023

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“Often times I feel that my body is a tool for energy to flow through. And I like to use my hair as a brush.”

One month ago, I met Moeko Maeda. Our paths crossed auspiciously the day before my birthday. As I came upon her in a gallery, totally immersed in her work, for the first time I knew I was witnessing a reflection of what I desire to become.

Her focus shook me. Her eyes were closed, deep in practice, conducting the space of the room, I watched her set new life in motion. To experience her art, is to behold the power of intention.

Our dialogue that I have seeded above, was purposefully recorded in her home studio, in downtown LA with a singular microphone positioned between us. Moeko speaks gently, erupts slowly, and unfolds her majesty as we progress. This conversation pairs well with tea, a rainy morning, and an open heart. Enjoy xj.

self portrait by moeko maeda

“Life is a dream that the ego is having

Ego is a dream that the soul is having

Soul is a dream that the spirit is having

Spirit is a dream that the source is having”

-Fr. Sean O’Laoire

Excerpt from Speedy Gallery LA Current Exhibition on view until March 25th, 2023

“Our lives are surrounded with opposite forces corresponding with each other. Everyday, every moment, we each balance ourselves inwards and outwards, consciously and unconsciously. In this presentation of works I sat and faced my own light and shadow within. Observing the movement that is continuously shifting, like a tide in the ocean. To stand in balance wherever we find ourselves, moment to moment, each coming of the day. These paintings kindly ask you to be presence with stillness. To perceive the balance within, for the two opposing forces to unite with harmony.

Salted painting: In Japan, salt is a sacred object. It is used in the rituals for purification of energy, spirit, and space, as well as shielding spaces. Ever since I was a child, salt has played a big role in my life. In the healing of body, purification of the spirit, and cleansing of the surroundings. Naturally salt has united into paintings as a way of painting ritual.

In the process of making the salted painting, it begins with a single word. At this point of departure I explore the depths of the word. This leads my hands to write words that flow into consciousness. The colors of the chakra follow, sealing the words inside the painting. As the final process of the ritual, cultivation and the crystallization of salt happen on the painting for its own purification and shield.

These paintings are breathing just as we are.”

Moeko Maeda (b. 1983, Hyogo, Japan) lives and works in Los Angeles.

Exhibition Period
February 18th — March 25th, 2023

Speedy Gallery | The first gallery in Los Angeles dedicated to the works of Japanese artists.