Sophia Soll

What was the topic of your research project for the Global East Asia Tokyo course and why did you choose that topic?

My research topic for the Global East Asia Tokyo course was paper, notably Noguchi paper lamps and shoji screens. I defined these art practices while simultaneously theorizing their philosophical and metaphysical properties. 

What were the main findings and/or highlights of your research?

 My concluding argument deduced from my research was that through the use of paper, Shoji Screens and Noguchi lamps are able to conjure the illusion of an inaccessible interior which makes the viewer appreciate the art form more. Here is a more in-depth explanation of my very theoretical argument: paper technically separates space from the viewer but through its very fragility suggests a filtered glimpse into the hidden interior. For example, in Japanese gardens, there exist unattainable places beyond the designated path: moss beds and islands. If you were to step foot in these places, you would immediately ruin the distance which is what makes them so beautiful. It is the same concept with paper screens and lamps: it conjures a private inner space which we simultaneously want to access yet know that to do so would ruin the very experience of desire. I am aiming to flesh this out into a more cohesive and published research paper.

Did you face any challenges when completing your research project or throughout the program in general? If so, how did you overcome them?

 Language barriers, but otherwise everything was absolutely wonderful.

In what ways did the Global East Asia Tokyo program impact or help your research?

Professor Desjardin’s eye for hidden beauty in everyday objects really inspired me to focus on a topic that may potentially be overlooked. Once you microscopically focus on an individual entity, no matter how small, there is a whole world of theories and arguments to be made and discovered.

Can you share any anecdotes about your Maymester experience?

If you are thinking of applying, just do it. Absolutely life-changing experience.