Bacon

Graphite is a versatile and widely used medium in art, primarily known for its soft, smooth texture and the ability to create fine details, shading, and gradients. It comes in the form of pencils or sticks, with varying degrees of hardness, ranging from very soft (6B, 8B) to very hard (H, 2H). The softness or hardness of the graphite determines the darkness or lightness of the marks it produces. When used in drawing, graphite allows artists to achieve a range of effects, from precise, sharp lines to soft, velvety shading. It is often favored for its ability to create tonal depth and realistic textures, making it a popular choice for portraiture, still life, and landscape drawing. Its subtlety and versatility also make it ideal for sketching and underpainting for larger works. Narwhal Contemporary is pleased to present Ambrosial Affair, an exhibition of new works by internationally celebrated Japanese artist Junko Mizuno. The second in a three-part exhibition series titled ‘Junko Mizuno’s Food Obsession’, Ambrosial Affair invites viewers into a world of delightfully dark and erotic food fetishes that views eating as a metaphor for female sexual appetite and power. The twenty works on display highlight Mizuno’s mastery of both traditional Japanese and contemporary illustrative techniques. Using acrylic, ink and graphite Mizuno has created visually stunning and content-rich pieces that walk a fascinating line between the adorable, humorous, mysterious and grotesque. Junko Mizuno is a self-taught artist who is recognized for her unique style of powerful and erotic female imagery. Growing up in Tokyo, Junko's work is based on '70s Japanese cute culture. Her art refuses to be categorized as she can get inspired by anything around her. Her sources of inspiration include fetish art, folk art, religious art, pin-up art, advertising art, vintage toys, greeting cards, comics, food, movies etc. In 1996, she self-produced a photocopy booklet called "MINA animal DX" which brought her to the attention of the publishing industry in Japan. Soon after, she debuted as a professional comic artist and illustrator. Currently residing in San Francisco, she is constantly working on new comics, paintings, illustrations and designs for products ranging from toys to clothing. As a forum for creative living, Narwhal fosters a commonwealth between awareness, interaction and appreciation. We established our first gallery in 2004 as part of Magic Pony and expanded to open Narwhal as an independent project space in 2008. Working as cultural mediators, Narwhal builds engaging relationships between artists, collectors, and the community. Informed by an entrepreneurial spirit, Narwhal combines a commercial gallery paradigm with a focus on innovative curatorial projects. Inspired by a commitment to make art accessible to all, Narwhal seeks to find an avenue for art and life to coexist on a broader level, creating collaborative projects and providing artist support within the forms of exhibitions, symposiums, publications, and multiples. Providing an International platform for emerging Canadian talent, and introducing artists from abroad to Toronto’s cultural sphere, Narwhal actively explores the convergences between fine art, design, and visual culture. Narwhal continually extends the ongoing discourse surrounding art practice to a wider audience, and works to connect the public with new curatorial ideas.