media:

    watercolor pencils; pen and ink; gel pens; acrylic paint

myths & tales:

    This is an interpretation of a creature from Japanese mythology and culture, a kitsune, which is something of a shape-shifting fox typically associated with the Shinto Kami (i.e. Deity) of rice, Inari. The paper lantern hanging from the Japanese maple, which is decorated by foxes frolicing near a torii gate, was directly inspired by a Ukiyo-e wood block print entitled "Summer Evening" by Utagawa Toyohiro. The kitsune holds a noh mask which suggests her deceptive nature as a being capable of shifting into human form.

    If you are interesting in these intruiging creatures of Japan, I highly suggest visiting The Kitsune Page to learn more about them.

All artwork and content is copyright © Desirée Isphording 2004 and may not be copied, modified, or distributed without prior express permission. Questions about copyright?