Iha Panels: Friendship + Cooperation

Sensei Seikichi Iha, Hanshi, 10th Dan taught Okinawan Karate to thousands of people all over the world for nearly 70 years.

My father taught me karate wasn't just about self-defense or skill; it was a way of living with friendship, cooperation, and continuous learning at its core. He believed that karate brought people together, building bonds and a shared journey. In my art, I strive to carry forward those values he lived by every day. Each piece I create reflects the spirit of togetherness and the openness he embodies. Through my artwork, I want to honor his vision of bringing people closer, creating a space where we can all learn from one another and grow. My art is my way of saying thank you to him for showing me that life is about being together, lifting each other up, and finding beauty in our shared path.

Each piece is a tribute to my father’s spirit and the values he held- friendship, cooperation, and a lifelong commitment to learning. My father believed that true strength comes from bringing people together, from learning alongside one another, and from the respect we show in those connections.

By placing his quotes on the back of the art panels, I hope to honor his legacy. These words are not just reminders of his philosophy; they are a conversation I hope people feel when they see my work. It is a way to keep his wisdom alive, to share his presence in a way that reaches beyond karate. Through art, I want to create a space where people can reflect, connect, and feel a sense of togetherness as he taught so many.

The repeating patterns on the panels reflect the enduring principles my father embodied. At first glance, they appear simple, but closer examination reveals subtle variations, mirroring the hidden complexities of his teachings and life itself.