KOBO Seattle | since 1995
Fireflies Homecoming
My childhood memories with beautiful fireflies and the devastating Fukushima nuclear disasters in my home country of Japan are the genesis of my uranium glass orbs.
After learning about vitrification technology, which transforms high-level radioactive waste into glass for permanent storage, I started integrating uranium in my glass sculptures. The firefly’s emanating green light reminds one of glowing uranium, producing a mixture of beauty and fear.
The month of August is associated with Hiroshima and Nagasaki memorials. This exhibit is to express my prayer for future generations.
Special thanks to Dave Misner for his support, lighting, and installation. Photographic images are created in collaboration with Masahiro Sugano, Peter Kuhnlein, and Sayuri Fukuda.
Etsuko's exhibit at KOBO at Higo is on display until September 14, 2024.
Learn more about Etsuko, her artist statement and bio are here: <link>
