I created the pentagonal shape of the ema (shaped like a house) in a large format by trimming a panel of Radiata pine plywood. The shape symbolizes a Shinto shrine roof which is believed to provide a temporary home for the spirits while they receive your prayer. I also chose to add a hole, whether I decided to hang it, or use wooden feet as a stand, the hole would be representative of the space for the classic red cord used at shrines.
I painted a white background on the ema with gofun, leaving a border of the raw pine. I then projected the image from my watercolor study onto the white background and painted the horse with mineral pigments. Mixing the gofun and the pigments was a relaxing task, and I absolutely loved the feel of the material.
The piece was sealed in hopes to protect it from the natural elements, and rope was used to hang it from a dead and fallen tree branch. I considered tethering it to the ground with wire and stakes, but I love that it hangs freely just above the ground, with nature as its frame.
I installed the ema just off the trail on the aqua loop inside the preserve. The completed installation gives me a sense of calm. For me, hanging this ema in the forest is an act of giving a tradition from my ancestral roots back to the earth. I hope that visitors will take a moment to hold a wish in their hearts as they observe the work.
