When creating her Sumi ink paintings, Japan-born, Vancouver-based artist Kaneko Johkoh works as quickly as possible so as not to lose or over-think the idea, image or sensation that she's trying to convey. This quasi-surrealist approach results in works whose sparse compositions and stripped forms evoke Joan Miró, while also drawing on classical Japanese Bokusho painting techniques. Johkoh veers between abstraction and figuration, with certain details suggesting landscapes or human figures, while others remain juxtapositions of pure formal elements like thick brushstrokes, washes of pale color, and flecks of bolder hues.

By giving each of her works a descriptive title, Johkoh suggests a possible figurative interpretation that makes her paintings, however influenced by tradition, seem simultaneously very contemporary. Through her minimal deployment of black ink swaths, restrained but colorful detailing — often including exquisite marble patterns she creates on her Washi papers — and evocative titles, Johkoh has developed a captivating and incredibly rich visual lexicon. The result is a series of works which undoubtedly reward repeated viewings.

Agora gallery is famous for showcasing a spectacular array of talented artists from around the world and around the corner, and for providing quality and original art to a discerning collector base.

The late Miki Stiles, MFA established Agora Gallery in 1984 to provide an opportunity to artists entering the New York art market. As an artist she faced many hardships while attempting to exhibit her art and wanted to help her fellow artists in their struggle.

Ms. Stiles was a visionary who founded the gallery on the principle that all artists, particularly emerging artists, are in need of enhancing their artist biographies/CV through gallery representation and exhibitions, in order to advance their artistic careers.