Shinkichi Tajiri
The influential Cobra artist Shinkichi Tajiri (1923-2009) was a Japanese-American sculptor. Tajiri is mainly known for his 'buttons'. Tajiri was born in the United States. In 1956, Tajiri moved to Amsterdam and a few years later he moved with his family to Limburg. Tajiri lived a large part of his life in Castle Scheres in Baarlo where he died in 2009 at an advanced age.
Tajiris' Knots
Tajiri made many works of art in the shape of a knot. As he himself proclaimed:
"I want people to be able to give meaning to my works of art themselves. With my 'knots', I want to make a clear statement, provide immediate communication between work and viewer" and: "The knot is a fascinating form of power, understandable to everyone. It doesn't matter whether I place a knot in Tokyo or in the Brazilian jungle."
Symbolism
Various meanings have been attributed to the knot. For one person it symbolises solidarity, embrace and harmony; for another, it symbolises a difficult situation, a troublesome issue, problem or struggle. For others it stands for a magical symbol or for tension
Baarlo; Village of the Knots
Tajiri knots can be found throughout the Netherlands. In Baarlo, the influences of Tajiri can be seen in various places. There are a number of buttons spread throughout the village. For example at d'Erp Castle and at the end of the main street you can see the Knots of Tajiri.