Dodo Birds’ Heads – Ink on Shikishi by Haruka Miyamoto
This ink painting by Haruka Miyamoto depicts two heads of the extinct dodo bird, rendered on a traditional Japanese shikishi board made of Gazen paper. The birds are positioned diagonally, facing one another across the board in a quiet, balanced composition.
Using techniques inspired by sumi-e (Japanese ink painting), the artist captures the essence of the dodo through layered brushwork and subtle gradations of ink. Each head is painted with a focus on gesture and form, rather than realism, emphasizing the character and physical presence of the species.
The work reflects Miyamoto’s ongoing exploration of extinct animals, translated here through minimal materials: black ink, paper, and the negative space around the subjects. A red inkan seal and handwritten signature complete the piece, situating it between personal reflection and traditional practice.
Dodo Birds’ Heads continues the artist’s commitment to honoring lost species through careful observation, material sensitivity, and handcrafted expression.
- Traditional Shikishi – Japanese paper mounted on a paper board with a golden border of metallic paper.
- Paper: Gazen
- Medium: Ink (Japanese Sumi-e)
- Size: 24cm x 27cm (9.4 x 10.6 inches)
- Signed & Stamped
