Reflecting on a Transformative Artistic Journey

As the year comes to a close, so does the primary phase of this project, The Missing Link. Reflecting on the past months, I was struck by how rewarding and transformative this experience has been—artistically, personally, and professionally. Few years in my career have matched the richness of 2024 in terms of creative output, meaningful connections, and personal growth.

 

Completion of Artistic Works

While a couple pieces were completed with resin in early December, the majority of the works—including paintings, prints, and sketches—were finished during the concentrated efforts of July through November. These pieces were deeply inspired by my journeys to places of ancestral and natural significance, and yet, the well of inspiration remains far from exhausted. The experiences and images gathered during this project have sparked a reservoir of ideas that I anticipate will continue to inform my work for years to come.

 

Documenting and Showcasing the Work

From September to December, I prioritized creating high-quality digital images of all completed works, as I went along. This included paintings, sketches, and the limited-edition print series. Capturing these pieces with professional accuracy was essential not only for preservation but also for sharing them widely, and for use on my website.

I paired these visual records with my personal reflections and formal writings, such as the Artist Statement and accompanying narrative pieces. These materials were meticulously edited and shared with my web designer, who finalized the redesign of my website. The updated site now serves as a comprehensive archive of The Missing Link, allowing audiences to explore the art, read about the journey, and understand the historical and emotional threads that bind the work and artist together.

Acknowledgments were prominently featured on the website, paying tribute to the organizations and individuals whose support was instrumental to the project. These include the Japanese Canadian Legacy Society (JCLS) and the Ucluelet & Area Historical Society (UAHS) and their supporters and sponsors.

Kimoto Tree Off Francis Island

End of the Road, Spring Cove Sunset

Final Report to the Japanese Canadian Legacy Society

The project concluded with the preparation and submission of a comprehensive final report to the JCLS. This document was a great opportunity to reflect on the transformative journey and articulate the artistic, historical, and personal insights gained along the way. It detailed not only the outcomes of the project but also the profound gratitude I feel for having had this opportunity to explore and honour my family’s history through this artwork.

 

A Legacy Beyond 2024

Though this phase of The Missing Link has concluded, its impact will resonate far beyond 2024. The experiences, narratives, and creative expressions that emerged during this journey have become part of a larger tapestry—one that intertwines heritage, memory, and artistic exploration. As I look to the future, I am filled with excitement to continue building on this foundation, ensuring that the stories and landscapes of my ancestors remain alive through art.

December marked not an end but a culmination—a moment to celebrate what has been achieved while envisioning all that is yet to come.