Join us this evening, Thursday, December 8, 6:30-8pm for the opening reception of our all-member media show, Let There Be Light, as well as the January solo artist show, Yoshimi Matsukata, A Hosta Story.

Hostas, often used as the border or backdrop in a garden, are the subject of Yoshimi Matsukata’s solo artist exhibit of watercolor paintings at The Art League Gallery, A Hosta Story. “It may be the scientist in me that keeps going back to organic subjects.” Continually drawn back to nature, Matsukata enjoys visually portraying something previously unnoticed in her environment. The rhythm created by the abstract shapes formed by light and shadow inspired Matsukata to create this series. “I find the colors, the curls, the deep veins in the foliage irresistible. I am particularly inspired when the sun creates a pattern of shadows underneath the foliage. I am most intrigued with hostas in the spring, when the foliage is fresh. I enjoy the sense of a new beginning.” The use of watercolor is an integral part of Matsukata’s work. “I like to work wet on wet, drop different colors on top of each other, and watch the pigments mix on paper. This often produces a granulated effect and a natural transition of color on the paper.” Matsukata’s works have been exhibited throughout the Washington area, nationally, and internationally. She studied painting at The Art League School, the Corcoran School of Art, and the Washington Studio School. She holds a BA from Harvard University in Biochemistry. She feels that her work represents a combination of her two passions, visual art and science.