Rui Sasaki is an artist whose work is deeply inspired by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s quote, “What is essential is invisible to the eye.” Through her use of glass, Sasaki captures the essence of botanicals, freezing them in time within cubes of water. Her art is a reflection of her belief that the intangible and mysterious aspects of life are just as important as what is visible.
One of Sasaki’s most notable works, “Subtle Intimacy,” showcases her ability to connect with her surroundings and evoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort. The artist describes intimacy as a way to bridge the gap between who she is and where she is, particularly in unfamiliar spaces. By incorporating plants into her sculptures, Sasaki aims to create a sense of connection to her homeland of Japan, where she gathers the botanical specimens that become the focal point of her art.
Sasaki’s process involves carefully collecting plants and placing them between sheets of glass before firing them in a kiln. The heat transforms the plants into white ash, leaving behind delicate impressions of petals, leaves, and veins. Air bubbles that form during the firing process are also preserved, adding another layer of complexity to her work. The end result is a time capsule of sorts, where the original form of the plant may no longer exist, but its essence lives on in the glass.
Dualities play a significant role in Sasaki’s art, as she explores concepts such as presence and absence, fragility and strength, and transparency and opacity. Through her ongoing exploration of glass as a medium, Sasaki embraces the idea that there will always be more to discover and understand about this versatile material.
Those interested in experiencing Sasaki’s work firsthand can visit her exhibitions at Glas in Denmark from March 22 to September 28, as well as at the Aichi Triennale 2025 later this year. To learn more about Rui Sasaki and her art, visit her website and follow her on Instagram for updates.
In conclusion, Rui Sasaki’s unique approach to glass art offers a glimpse into the beauty and complexity of nature. Through her meticulous process and deep connection to her surroundings, she creates stunning sculptures that capture the essence of botanicals in a way that is both timeless and captivating.
