Art for Conservation: Salamander Stories in Watercolor
By Francisco Garcia
In an exciting union of art and conservation, renowned artists Tougen Kim and Daiki Maeda have poured their creativity into original, one-of-a-kind watercolor compositions dedicated to the preservation of the Japanese giant salamander. As you explore their works, you not only witness the beauty of these salamanders but are presented with an opportunity to contribute directly to our Japanese giant salamander Outreach and Education Program for locals. These artworks are available for sale on our website here, allowing you to bring home a piece of art while making a positive impact on salamander conservation. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Tougen Kim and Daiki Maeda for their invaluable contributions, using their art to drive awareness and support for the conservation of this endangered species.
Tougen Kim: Vanishing Tranquility
Tougen Kim's creation: Vanishing Tranquility
Medium: Watercolor on Arches Watercolor Paper
Dimensions: 36.3cm x 25.7cm
The Story: Tougen Kim offers a rare glimpse into the world of a giant with Vanishing Tranquility. The rich hues, meticulously crafted using advanced watercolor techniques, breathe life into this captivating scene. Witness a Japanese giant salamander gracefully navigate its aquatic realm, unaware of the imminent threats to its calm existence. Click here to shop and explore.
Artist’s Background: Born in Seoul, South Korea, in 1953, Tougen Kim arrived in Japan in 1971, transitioning from a graphic designer to a freelance illustrator. Renowned for major works in picture book illustration and watercolor landscapes, Kim has conducted solo exhibitions since 1983, contributing to 70 museums and exhibition halls. His commitment extends to teaching painting to children in Nepal every year since 2008. An active member of the Japan Book Designers Association, Kim resides in Urayasu City, Chiba Prefecture. Discover more of Kim's artwork on his Instagram: @tougenkim.
Daiki Maeda: Spirit of the Stream
Daiki Maeda's Creation: Spirit of the Stream
Medium: Watercolor on Arches Watercolor Paper
Dimensions: 26.6cm x 19.3cm
The Story: Experience the whimsical charm of the Japanese giant salamander with Maeda’s Spirit of the Stream. Crafted with watercolor, Daiki Maeda playfully depicts the innocent soul of this ancient creature. Rooted in Japanese folklore, the JGS is revered as the guardian of water sources and is believed to only inhabit clean, pure waters, a belief grounded by its ability to breathe through its skin. Unfortunately, our research reveals a challenging reality — once-pure waters now face contamination from pesticides and animal waste due to unchecked farmlands. As Sustainable Daisen formulates a plan of action to address this environmental concern, the fate of the Stream Spirit hangs delicately, calling on us all to support this endangered water guardian. Click here to shop and learn more.
In 2022 Sustainable Daisen successfully supplied educational JGS books to every Daisen Town elementary school classroom.
By investing in these exceptional artworks, you not only acquire a beautiful piece for your collection but become an essential part of the effort to protect the Japanese giant salamander. Your contribution helps us expand our educational initiatives, fostering awareness and advocacy for the preservation of these unique creatures. Together, we can make a lasting impact, ensuring the tranquility of the Japanese giant salamander's natural habitat for generations to come.
