SAN DIEGO, CA -  The San Diego Museum of Art presents Kimono as Art: The Landscapes of Itchiku Kubota, on view November 1, 2008–January 4, 2009. In conjunction with the Timken Museum of Art, SDMA is presenting a major exhibition featuring the work of internationally recognized Japanese textile artist and kimono designer, Itchiku Kubota (1917–2003). Kubota used a variety of traditional techniques and unique personal innovations to create shimmering, abstract landscapes through a complex layering of dyes and inks on monumentally-scaled kimono.

On display at the Timken will be a selection of kimono from Kubota’s Mt. Fuji series—a popular subject in the arts of Japan—presented as three views of Japan’s most famous mountain at different times of day. On view at SDMA is Kubota’s dramatic series Symphony of Light, a tour de force presenting a sweeping landscape across 30 kimono placed side by side. In addition, a selection of Kubota’s individual works will be on view at both museums. The subtle changes of color and the quality of light achieved through skillful dyeing and the clever exploitation of the light-reflective properties of silk make this a breathtaking installation.

Founded in 1941, the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD) is the preeminent contemporary visual arts institution in San Diego County. The Museum’s collection includes more than 4,000 works of art created since 1950. In addition to presenting exhibitions by international contemporary artists, the Museum serves thousands of children and adults annually at its varied education programs, and offers a rich program of film, performance, and lectures. MCASD is a private, nonprofit organization, with 501c3 tax-exempt status; it is supported by generous contributions and grants from MCASD Members and other individuals, corporations, foundations, and government agencies. Visit : www.sdmart.org