Kenzi Shiokava (São Paulo, 1938 – Los Angeles, 2021) developed, over a five-decade career, a singular practice, creating large-scale wooden totems and assemblages from the remnants of his gardening work. His sculptures evoke Japanese woodcarving traditions while engaging with catholic iconography and the symbols of candomblé. His work explores the relationship between spirituality and materiality, bringing new narratives to everyday materials. He held solo exhibitions at Otis College of Art and Design, Watts Tower Art Center, and Chouinard Gallery, in Los Angeles, and participated in the Hammer Museum’s biennial in 2016, establishing his presence in the US art scene.

This participation is supported by the National Center for Art Research.