Personal Project: Buddha of Kamakura

Studio: Eat Rice Studio

Client: Personal Project
Role: Art Director & Animator

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During a tumultuous period in 2019, I traveled to Japan to find solace after losing my father to aggressive bladder cancer. My father's passion for collecting Buddhas instilled in me a deep appreciation for the practice and its spiritual resonance.

Encountering the Buddha of Kamakura for the first time stirred overwhelming emotions. Tears flowed freely as I stood in awe of its magnificence, marveling at the exquisite craftsmanship typical of Japanese art and the peculiar charm of the giant woven shoes hung close by the statue.

Later that same day, my husband and I explored Tokyo's Golden Gai, where we befriended a fellow traveler from China over a bowl of miso ramen. The day unfolded as a tapestry of enchanting moments, deepening my affection for Japan. Inspired by the day's profound experiences, I created a whimsical animation as a token of gratitude to honor the memories made.