Guardians in Paint: Miwa Komatsu’s Mythical Beasts Bridge Spirit and Shelter

In the forests of Nagano, the komainu—lion-dog guardians—have long stood watch at shrines, but for artist Miwa Komatsu, these mythical protectors leap from stone to canvas. Her vivid paintings pulse with energy, channeling the wild spirit of Japan’s mountains and rivers, where childhood memories of dusk and watchful mountain dogs shaped her vision. Komatsu’s dynamic lines are more than technique; they are a form of meditation, each stroke a search for balance between chaos and calm. Her creatures, often adorned with symbols like unicorns, embody both protection and purity, inviting viewers to reflect on their own inner light. Her works have traveled from the British Museum to sacred shrines, yet Komatsu believes each piece finds its own destiny, growing with every new encounter. For her, art is not just decoration—it’s a medicine for the soul, a quiet guardian in turbulent times. #JapaneseArt #MiwaKomatsu #MythicalCreatures #Culture