水石 - viewing stones

 My tutor Kate suggested i look at Suiseki or viewing stones. Suiseki is the Japanese art of stone appreciation, which values aspects like stability, longevity and immortality. Formed through time by wind and water, stones can take several sizes and shapes, reminding us of natural objects. They are often placed on delicate wooden stands or trays, called daizas and dobans, respectively. The wooden stands serve to display the stones and create an image of harmony. The stones are naturally occurring and unshaped. Literally translated 'Suiseki' means waterstone, the stones often represent mountains, waterfalls and other natural scenes. The art of Suiseki involves the collection process, preparation of the stone (though not altering their shape or appearance) and appreciation. I really love the idea of making these viewing stones. It really resonates with my own practices of natural found objects. I often have a desire to place a natural stone or tree branch in a gallery setting, as in my mind they are already ready-made art object. 

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