Artwork copyright June Sekiguchi. Photo courtesy of the artist, 2023.

Blue Mandala, 2019

June Sekiguchi
(American)

Location: Kessler Center, Puyallup

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

Blue Mandala by June Sekiguchi is inspired by the patterns on Japanese Shoji screens. A mandala is a circular symbol that is designed with symmetrical, intricate patterns, often within a square shape. In Hinduism, Buddhism, and other Eastern religions, the symbol represents the universe, wholeness, and totality. It is used as an aid for spiritual practice and meditation. Sekiguchi is reinterpreting these traditions in a new way.

This artwork is part of a curated collection by Lucile Chich in October 2023 for the Kessler Center, in Puyallup, Western Washington. The collection is based on joy, color, and the inclusion of a marginalized population within the arts community. It was critical to the local Art Selection Committee that the collection celebrate artists who are experiencing disability. This could be physical, neurological, or intellectual. They also wanted the see artists who use the transformative powers of artmaking to transcend, to heal, to rejoice.

This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with Puyallup School District.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

June Sekiguchi creates sculptures, installations, and wall constructions with a focus on patterns. Her artworks address identity, cross cultural exchange, and personal narratives. She is also an arts activist involved in social justice issues, cultural exchange, mental health, and elder communities.

Sekiguchi was born and raised in Fayetteville, Arkansas where her family was one of the few Asian families in the area. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in studio art from the University of California at Santa Barbara. She has lived in Western Washington since 1994, and currently lives in University Place, in Pierce County, Western Washington.