Da Fu Shen Introduction
Daifukujin, in Japanese "大福神", was conceived to convey the beauty of white marble, rich ideals, abundant spirit, and the emotional richness of people including inclusivity, tolerance, generosity, and contemplation. Creator Introduction: Author: Tetsuo Harada Personal Background: After World War II, Harada was born in a small village called Niitsu, surrounded by rice fields (now part of actual Niigata City). The Harada family were farmers, and his father became a blacksmith who then built structures using metal. His elder brother Shigeo served as chairman, now managed by his son Hisao, who is an architect. Niichiro and Kikuno Harada had three boys and three girls, with Tetsuo being the sixth. His father was the chairman of "Harada Tekojio" and understood the importance of education well; therefore, Niichiro Harada allowed him to purchase any books he wanted for his education while choosing the direction he wished to pursue. Tetsuo, skilled in art and regarded as a philosopher, learned jazz music and songs, taught himself guitar, and sang Beatles’ music among friends. Creative Process: The work is inspired by the seven deities in Japanese belief that are thought to bring good fortune and wealth – Ebisu, Daikokuten, Bishamonten, Jurōjin, Fukurokuju, Benzaiten, and Hotei. The concept of the "Shichifukujin" (Seven Deities of Good Fortune) pouch is embodied in the creation of "Daifukujin", made from white marble. The piece features a pleasing rounded shape reminiscent of Japanese deities, aiming to express rich emotions, abundant spirit, and symbolize inclusivity, tolerance, and generosity, while conveying joy, peace, hope, and friendship.
