Claudia Kogachi
Bunny Steps, 2026
acrylic on canvas, framed in carved oregon
1520 x 2130mm
1560 x 2165mm framed
1560 x 2165mm framed
Further images
Meandering across two curvilinear stone staircases that ascend heavenward, a gathering of bunnies hop, play, and nestle together.In Japanese folklore, usagi (the rabbit) is deeply revered as a potent symbol...
Meandering across two curvilinear stone staircases that ascend heavenward, a gathering of bunnies hop, play, and nestle together.In Japanese folklore, usagi (the rabbit) is deeply revered as a potent symbol of good fortune, longevity, and cleverness. Because rabbits only leap forward, never backward, they traditionally embody forward momentum and advancement. Furthermore, their folkloric ties to the moon cast them as benevolent harbingers of springtime, fertility, and profound self-sacrifice.
Flanking the composition is a dense, vibrant tapestry of kara-riō (calla lilies). Introduced to Japan from the Netherlands in 1843 during the late Edo period, these blossoms symbolise magnificent beauty and feminine modesty within Hanakotoba (the traditional language of flowers).
At the heart of the composition is a portal to perhaps an ethereal, cosmic plane. Here, Kogachi emerges from a tranquil pond surrounded by reeds which are revered in Japanese folklore and culture as symbols that embody the vital energy of creation, seasonal transition, and natural resilience. Mirroring her previous works Lady Iris and Moon Pond, Kogachi casts her self-portrait as a statue painted with an iridescent bronze. Draped in a robe, she combs through her long, flowing hair. Directly below this celestial window rests a solitary scallop shell, serving as an auspicious talisman of wealth, safe travel, and good fortune.
Flanking the composition is a dense, vibrant tapestry of kara-riō (calla lilies). Introduced to Japan from the Netherlands in 1843 during the late Edo period, these blossoms symbolise magnificent beauty and feminine modesty within Hanakotoba (the traditional language of flowers).
At the heart of the composition is a portal to perhaps an ethereal, cosmic plane. Here, Kogachi emerges from a tranquil pond surrounded by reeds which are revered in Japanese folklore and culture as symbols that embody the vital energy of creation, seasonal transition, and natural resilience. Mirroring her previous works Lady Iris and Moon Pond, Kogachi casts her self-portrait as a statue painted with an iridescent bronze. Draped in a robe, she combs through her long, flowing hair. Directly below this celestial window rests a solitary scallop shell, serving as an auspicious talisman of wealth, safe travel, and good fortune.