Byobu Screen Exhibition by Alejandro Bertolo

Alejandro Bertolo, who signs his works “Bokuma (Ink Horse),” started his training in Japanese painting at the age of 19. He learned sumi-e and nihonga painting with the Japanese artists Tazuko NIIMURA, Sho FUNAKI and Hiroshi YAMAMOTO. He studied Japanese calligraphy with Master Calligrapher Masako INKYO.

Bertolo was introduced to the Japanese techniques of backing and stretching his paintings, as well as the making of Japanese folding screens (byobu) in 1998 by Akihiro KATO, Conservator of the Japanese Art Collection of the Freer and Sackler Galleries in Washington D.C. On the semi-three-dimensional surface of accordion-folded screens, his depictions of wildlife and mythical creatures come to life. He is a member of the group “Artists for Conservation,” pledging his support to the protection of natural habitats and endangered species. He has also explored the intricacies of Buddhist painting.

Bertolo has shown his work in Canada, UK, US and Argentina. He currently resides in Montreal. 15 screens by Bertolo, as well as work by Hiroshi YAMAMOTO, Bertolo’s friend and former teacher, will be on display in this exhibition.

Byobu Exhibition Hours