In Praise of Hands: Woodcuts by Naoko Matsubara - Poems by Penny Boxall

Naoko Matsubara and Penny Boxall have collaborated to create a book that celebrates the beauty and variety of the human hand. The woodcuts are inspired by the artist's baby son's busy hand movements and convey a sense of joy and energy. Penny Boxall's new poems accompany the woodcuts, forming a remarkable creative synergy. The book has been designed by Yoshiki Waterhouse, Naoko Matsubara's son, whose baby hands were the original inspiration for the series.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 76 pages
Publication date: 09 November 2020
Publisher: Ashmolean Museum

This captivating collaboration between artist Naoko Matsubara and poet Penny Boxall brings forth a vibrant celebration of the beauty and diversity of the human hand through a fusion of words and colors. At the core of this remarkable book lies a series of dynamic woodcuts that initially sprang from the artist's fascination with her baby son's busy hand movements. These woodcuts evolved into a broader exploration of hands in all their extraordinary variations, encompassing hands engaged in music, sports, prayer, or creative pursuits. The woodcuts exude a sense of joy and vitality, whether they delve into the symbolism of gestures, experiment with form and color, or convey a particular mood or emotion.

To accompany these captivating woodcuts, Penny Boxall has crafted a series of new poems that seamlessly harmonize with the art. With their clarity, playfulness, and diverse range of moods, these poems form a remarkable creative synergy with the visual artwork. The significance of hands, particularly in the context of the coronavirus pandemic, has gained newfound importance. Many of the images in the series have taken on powerful new meanings, such as healing hands, hands finding ways to occupy hours during furlough, or hands clapping in support of those working tirelessly to ensure our safety.

We are particularly delighted that this elegant book has been designed by Yoshiki Waterhouse, the son of Naoko Matsubara, whose baby hands served as the original inspiration for the series. The artistic journey from the initial spark of curiosity to the final realization of this captivating collaboration is a testament to the power of creativity and the profound impact that art can have on our lives.

Weight: 210g
Dimension: 149 x 210 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781910807446