Rei Sato

signed in English and dated 2008 on the reverse

The work is in good condition overall. There are no apparent condition issues with this work.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Summer holidays are a period bursting with full-fledged youth, energy, and alleviation and the beginning is the most joyous time of all.  The limited presence of a yellow school bus hints at the transition that has just passed and the faded quality of the photo suggests overall nostalgia.  Rei Sato's kawaii fashioned, smiling, waving children are seemingly weightless when painted on top of a photograph of an everyday suburban Japanese eatery.  Alright! Starting from Now is the best example of a romantic memory of a young artist grounded in realism.  The ethereal quality of the paint enhanced sky and vibrant otherworldly figures craft a subtext for an innocent snapshot.  Upon closer examination, one finds that no physical contact is apparent between each child, reiterating the different degrees of separation in their holistic existence. As a member of Takashi Murakami's Kaikai Kiki group, Rei Sato masterfully balances undertones of longing and ironic alienation with a fond and innocuous retrospective glimpse at times passed.