For Immediate Release

Conversations on the Street

Featuring Works by Doll Artist, Tomoka Ike

February 5, 2010 – April 9, 2010

Opening Reception: Friday, February 5, 3pm to 6pm; Artist in Attendance

Art Beatus (Vancouver) is delighted to present “Conversations on the Street” featuring doll-artist, Tomoka Ike. Inspired by real people, real situations, and real life, Ike has created a new series of dolls based on people she has met, conversations she has overhead, and strangers she has spoken to on the streets of Vancouver, BC. “In the city, we come across strangers all the time.  It’s a chance for something new and exciting.  I love to watch the people on the street.  The city inspires me’". 

As a child, Ike would make paper dolls for her sisters and friends, a much loved activity that, as she grew older, was forgotten.  After immigrating to Canada in 1980, she began making dolls again with the thought that she might one day share them with the public.  September 11, 2001 and the loss of her job was the catalyst that drove Ike to pursue her dream more determinedly.  She began participating in various events throughout Canada, offering doll-making courses and eventually exhibiting her works on a more serious level.

Every doll created is a labor of love and one-of-a-kind.  The exquisite facial expressions carefully crafted by the artist clearly reflect the doll’s personality and radiate an almost lifelike energy.  Fabrics to dress the figures are specially selected and sewn, knitted or woven; shoes and accessories are chosen wherever the artist may find them.   This is the second exhibition at Art Beatus for Ike.  In 2006, nineteen dolls were featured in the ‘Tale of the Heike’ exhibition, a tribute to an epic samurai classic of medieval Japanese literature.

“Conversations on the Street” runs from February 5 to April 9, 2010 and will feature an installation of several different scenarios inspired by Ike’s observances and interactions with people in Vancouver.  A total of approximately 15 dolls will be shown.  The exhibition will open with a public afternoon reception on Friday, February 5, 2010 from 3pm to 6pm and the artist, Tomoka Ike will be present.