The Arizona debut of Hiroshi Yamano’s exhibit, “Scenes of Japan,” has partially changed LewAllen Gallery by exposing the beauty of Japan through glass-art.

Myrna Haglund, after reflecting upon one of the exhibited works, said it definitely has that Japanese tranquility and relation with nature that appeals to people.

Hiroshi Yamano, due to his roots, is capable of evoking a sense of character that is best explained as foreign and unique.

Robert Gardner, co-owner and director of LewAllen Gallery, said, “I think that there is that Japanese sensibility that you don’t see in any work that’s done in the states and there’s this real reverence for nature.”

According to the LewAllen Galleries website, Yamano was born and raised in Japan and as a young man began travelling across Europe and America. He earned his first training in glass blowing from California College of Arts and Crafts in Oakland then eventually returned to Japan in order to continue learning the discipline of glass blowing. Yamano eventually returned to America, enrolled at RIT (Rochester Institute of Technology) and obtained his MFA. His experiences in the western hemisphere helped him develop his style that separates himself from other artists and Yamano’s artwork is presented all throughout the world as he is showcased in multiple permanent collections.

Many factors of Yamano’s work appeal to the masses due to his unique artistic approach.

“There’s nobody that’s doing what he does,” Gardner said. “Earlier in his career, Yamano typically made hollowed out pieces that would utilize a fish motif and incorporate blown glass fish throughout the piece.”

The extent of beauty and diligence exemplified in Yamano’s work provide insight into his personality.

Speaking in regards to the utilization of fish, Gardner said, “It’s sort of a metaphor that he refers to when he is talking about himself, like a fish that always has to keep moving to keep from dying.”

Yamano’s continuous development as an artist is apparent with his new approach that is exhibited in “Scenes of Japan.”

“Several years ago, he started to branch out from the fish motif and started making birds. These pieces feature both birds and fish and little, very delicate flowers and much more so this time than ever before, branches. So, it’s unusual—until now—to see this kind of intricate work,” Gardner said.

The broad range of talent and the apparent expertise of Yamano should not be overlooked nor should the opportunity to witness his artwork on display.

According to the LewAllen Gallery website, “Scenes of Japan” is on display until April 26. The gallery is located in downtown Scottsdale at 7036 E. Main St. and access to the exhibit is free during all hours of business.