The weather is warming up and Valentine’s Day is coming.

So is 2nd Saturday Downtown, Tucson’s popular urban street fest in downtown, www.2ndsaturdaysdowntown.com. We usually check out the monthly art receptions, musical shows on the Scott Avenue Stage, Fox Theater, the food & craft booths, etc.

Artist Yoshi Nakano will be having a reception from 6 to 8 p.m. on Feb. 9th, for his one man “Brush Spirit” show, which opened at The Drawing Studio, 33 S. 6th Ave. on Feb. 2nd. He uses five elements: brush, sumi ink, washi (Japanese paper), pigment, and beeswax. The show runs through Feb. 24. We viewed his art on Feb. 2nd and it is very beautiful and elegant, especially one particular piece entitled “Into the Storm”.

“Into the Storm” by Yoshi Nakano, courtesy of the artist

Says Nakano, “My artwork is inspired by the wabi sabi spirits of nature and seasonal change. Through the daily practice of meditation, qi gong, and yoga, my awareness of how I communicate is transformed. This spirit comes through brush, ink, wax, pigment and water onto paper. Each brush stroke is filled with breath and spirit. The brush is synchronized to my breath. I follow the brush to meet my true self. In this moment, I am in a holistic state of being art.”

Yoshi Nakano’s artwork

Last Saturday he was also teaching Japanese calligraphy during his opening reception.

Artist Yoshi Nakano teaching calligraphy to young Sophia Venning, photo courtesy of mother Kresta Venning

Stop by the Drawing Studio on Saturday to see Yoshi’s art. And as for the other fun activities on February 9th, click here.