About Keiko | By Benjamin Morse, Philosopher

A DISCIPLE ASKED THE SAGE "What exists in the space between objects I see?" "Everything." The frottaged images of a branch spanning the space between an actual branch shows that in the space between physical parts of a tree, that tree exists. The tree exists in open space the way being and non-being must necessarily exist together. Space and the physical are interdependent on each other for their existence in that space differentiates physical objects. Space is also the medium where objects give away and collect particles and waves from each other in a continuum of changing forms. By using trees as a symbol of the unity of objects and space, Keiko chooses an object, which lives in a nearly perfect giving and receiving relationship with its surroundings. Keiko's art provides its observers opportunity to meditate on the ways we are unified with our environment by allowing us to see that we too exist in the space between and in other objects. If we can learn from such meditation, to think of ourselves existing beyond the physical self; time and distance become less important, while caring for our environment becomes an imperative, because to do so is to take care of ourselves. Of course, we can also choose not to listen to the sage's reply, but we do so at our own peril.