Comprised of text and image, my drawings and paintings are quiet pieces with intricate details revealing multiple meanings. After observation, research, and analysis, I assemble writings about subjects ranging from an individual's storied life, to Lake Michigan and the hidden geological wonders beneath its changing waters. The fading words and minimal imagery provide glimpses of information, as a means to explore seeing and interpretation, memory and knowledge, reading and retention.

Dualities and comparisons are prominent components of my work, stemming from experiences as a twin and my cultural identity as a Japanese-American. Pairings in imagery, positive and negative space, as well as the limited palette of two groupings of color, are applied like the manipulation of hashi (chopsticks), each operating in cooperation and opposition to the other.


Joanne has exhibited in gallery and museum shows and has received several grants and fellowships. For a current curriculum vitae, please contact her.