2012 -2014

Shiba Dog – Posterior

Oodaira’s work illuminates the theme of Hope, and touches on the Buddhist concept of the mantra of “A-UM”.At the entrance to shrines and temples can be found symmetrical statues of dogs and Nio guardians. Theserepresent a unique expression of Japanese Buddhism in relation to the ancient sound of “A-UM”, a practice foundin other Asian religions. Each statue of the symmetrical pair can be observed, one with the mouth open (“A”), andthe other with the mouth closed (“UM”) representing Alpha & Omega, Birth & Death, the Beginning & End.These statues guard the line barrier at the entrance of shrines and temples.In his artwork, Oodaira is trying to express events experienced in his personal life. In marriage, one person joinsanother and they become two, entwined in mutual respect and harmony. And from this unity, children are born andraised, signifying the theme of Hope. The green turf represents the landscape where a family lives in and theSwarovski used symbolizes Hope, the power of harmony as the world progresses into the future.