Cats have been our free-willed companions for centuries, even revered as gods in some cultures, and in modern times still have our hearts (and the internet) wrapped around their little kitty toes. But despite their closeness to our hearts, there is still so much about them that remains mysterious, and it is this mystery that captured the imagination of Japanese artist Junko Koguchi as she rendered these gorgeously enchanting cat masks.
Junko, who is currently living in Tokyo’s nearest neighbor to the north, Saitama Prefecture, writes on her profile page that she enjoys imagining what a cat’s world would be like, and it’s the thought of wanting that enjoyment to take shape that inspires her when making her beautiful cat creations, which are both cute and a little frightening.
This first one looks like it was inspired by the Japanese hannya masks used in Noh theatre.
She even has a series inspired by Buddhist imagery. Lotus flowers, like the one seen below, represent purity in Buddhism.
Be sure to take a look at Ms. Koguchi’s homepage “Nekomenyamuchudo” for more of her lovely kitty creations. (It’s Japanese only, but her works are still as pretty!)
Source: Japaaan magazine
Images © Junko Koguchi via Japaaan magazine
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