I am very delighted to see my longtime dream ‒ a personal exhibition in New York - coinmg true.

Since 1969, I have visited more than 30 countries along the Silk Road, ancient trading route between China and Europe that passes through West Asian highlands. Attracted by the people, their behavior and customs in the mountainous areas in the Eurasian continent, I kept on painting them during those journeys. Sometimes I carried a heavy oxygen tank in 5000 meter-level (15000 foot-level) highlands, sometimes I traveled on a horseback, and stayed in a tent for many nights. Among many other things, I had painted the huge stone Buddhist statures in Bamiyan, Afghanistan, before they were destroyed in 2001.

The Silk Road area is characterized by vivid and powerful colors. The land, nature, the produce and the lively market places inspired me a lot. They indeed gave me enough energy and passion to go on. I sincerely hope that I can share such stimulation with the people who visit my exhibition in New York. I would be very grateful if, through my pictures, I could convey what I learned in the Silk Road area; its historical charm and the peacefulness of the people who live in mountains and deserts. 　　　　　　　
　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　IRIE KAZUKO