Here in Central New York, we're familiar with the name Kubota, because it's the name of a Japanese company that manufactures great lawnmowers and farm equipment. But, in the art world, the name is also synonymous with quality.

Itchiku Kubota was an artist known for reviving the centuries-old mastery of artistic textile-dyeing known as tsujigahana, which translates as "flowers at the crossroads." His kimono work, featuring bright colors and vivid themes, is on display through mid-September at Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute in Utica.

Credit: MWPAI
Credit: MWPAI
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Of course our initial impression of a kimono is the long Japanese robe. But these are very special examples and are presented in large, panoramic landscape views on the walls of the gallery. Who knew kimono (and that spelling IS an acceptable pluralization) could be so cool?

Credit: MWPAI
Credit: MWPAI
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We found out everything we needed to know about the art form and the artist from Anna D'Ambrosio, the President and CEO of Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute, in this brief interview on the Lite 98.7 morning show:

In order to find out more for yourself, you really should go see it in person. The exhibit will be featured at MWPAI through September 16, 2018. There's more info right here on the MWPAI website.

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