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Twin Town High (vol. 8) |
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Rhythmic Spirit: Taiko Women @ Center for Independent Artists
Wednesday 14 May @ 13:29:56 |
 by Valerie Valentine
Can you feel the thrum of the drum? Charissa Uemura’s photography show at Center for Independent Artists steps up to the rhythm in a big way. The ancient Japanese tradition of Taiko drumming is alive and thriving in the Twin Cities.
Taiko drummer photo by Charissa Uemura
Taiko translated literally means “big drum.” Japanese village borders were defined by how far the taiko could be heard. The musical art form began in Japan, then trickled into the Midwest from the West coast, where the East Asian population is more concentrated. During the 1950s and ‘60s, the music took influence from American jazz music, and now incorporates almost any musical style.
A drummer herself, Uemura’s photographs reproduce the organic lifestyle of taiko. Oversized prints echo in the large space with raw immediacy. Rough edges emphasize the unfinished style, and full, uncropped frames lend a proximity that’s as intimate as it is assertive. The work-in-progress parallels the ongoing way taiko women translate their drumming knowledge into everyday living.
The constantly evolving art is an empowering expression of Japanese culture. Modern Japanese American women have claimed the traditionally male art form as their own. Countering stereotypical images of demure, passive Asian women, these women rocking the large drums unleashing the sound and motion of a dragon’s roar.
The visual photo assortment captures Taiko as a way of life. Taiko women take their art beyond just performance to a spiritual level. Kogen taiko’s philosophy is Buddhist in nature. Individual ego is sacrificed to group collaboration. As with any musical enterprise, the artists respect what each person may bring to the mix. Emphasis is on being present in the moment, accentuating participation rather than perfection. A feeling of acceptance and community allows these women to release.
You can almost feel the beats vibrating through the gallery, filling a room in the imagination. Photo stills depict a near-palpable vitality. Black and white catches stark, visceral movement and emotion. Synchronized poses of sticks over drumskin energize facial expressions of pure, open energy and concentration.
Mu Daiko and Kogen Taiko are two practicing groups in the area. These photo prints freeze-frame portraits of their modern musical ballet. The groups hand make their drums as well as their lives: together, they sculpt a life’s work in rhythm and form.
Uemura portrays camaraderie among women that inspires a world where women can rattle roof beams. The passion inherent expresses full commitment in mind, body and spirit.
Rythmic Spirit: Taiko Women continues through May 25 . Center for Independent Artists, 4137 Bloominton Ave. S., Mpls. http://www.c4ia.org.
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