Aoyama

Artist Trevor Sutton (Romford, England, born 1948)

Date1996

Mediumoil on board

ClassificationsPaintings And Drawings

Dimensions94 × 94 × 6.5cm

AcquisitionPurchased in 1997 with assistance from the National Fund for Acquisitions and the National Art Collections Fund.

LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub

Object numberABDAG012251

Keywords

Abstract

About MeSutton's art is based on his relationship with the world. Travel is a constant source of inspiration and the titles of his paintings often refer to specific places. The artist jots down ideas, for example architectural details, windows and signs, from which paintings later evolve.

Sutton visited Japan in 1992 and again in 1995. On both occasions, he exhibited at the White Art Gallery which is located in Aoyama, a neighborhood of Tokyo, located in the northeastern Minato Ward. During the Edo Period, Aoyama was home to various temples, shrines, and samurai residences. The name Aoyama (literally 'blue mountain'), is derived from a samurai warrior named Aoyama Tadanari who served the Tokugawa Shogunate and had a mansion in this area. Today, along with Shibuya and Harajuku, it is one of the most popular entertainment and shopping areas for young people in Tokyo and is well known for its fashion houses, restaurants, and shopping.