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Yusuke Asai, mosaic, art installation, soil art, natural material art, earth art, earth colors, Japanese artist, painting, Rice Gallery, Texas art, Houston

Asai calls his art “earth paintings” because he primarily works with soil, an abundant and organic medium. “I choose to use the earth as a medium because I can find dirt anywhere in the world and do not need special materials,” Asai says. “Dirt is by nature very different than materials sold in art stores! Seeds grow in it and it is home to many insects and microorganisms. It is a ‘living’ medium.”

Related: World’s Largest Rubik’s Cube Mosaic Made of 85,794 Cubes Wins Guinness World Record

Asai doesn’t pre-plan his designs with sketches. According to the artist, imagery of figures and creatures come to him in the spur of the moment and translate into beautiful detailed worlds with rolling mountains, geological forms, and tribal patterns. These compositions spill from the gallery walls to the floors and ceilings to create an immersive experience for the viewer.

+ Yusuke Asai

+ Rice Gallery

Photos by Nash Baker