Ulrich Museum of Art
Collection of the Ulrich Museum of Art. Museum Purchase
Togetherness (Eclipse) (2019) by Devan ShimoyamaUlrich Museum of Art
Togetherness is a meditation on identity, mythology, and the cycles of transformation that define our lives. By reclaiming symbols like the snake and positioning his figure within a cosmic setting, Shimoyama invites us to consider the narratives we carry and the power to change.
A weightless figure floats with exaggerated characteristics. Its gemstone eyes, gradient skin, and shimmering hair evoke a dreamlike and mystical presence. Free from conventional gender representations, this figure reflects a fluid, complex, and ever-changing identity.
Togetherness (Eclipse) (2019) by Devan ShimoyamaUlrich Museum of Art
In many African cultures, snakes are seen as sacred mediators between the physical and spiritual realms. They represent renewal, healing, and wisdom. In this context, the serpent is not an enemy like traditional Western beliefs but a mentor, aiding the figure through its journey.
Eclipse refers to a celestial phenomenon in which the sun or moon is temporarily obscured. This event symbolizes transformation, cycles, and the dynamic relationship between light and shadow, encouraging reflection on hidden truths and the constant evolution of the self.
Togetherness (Eclipse) (2019) by Devan ShimoyamaUlrich Museum of Art
Swirling tones of deep purples, blues, and pinks create a celestial void. Delicate blossoms float across this space, adding a layer of fragility to the otherwise dramatic composition. These flowers symbolize the impermanence of life and the inevitability of change.
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