Shisa dogs are traditional Ryukyuan guardians, a cross between a lion and a dog, seen everywhere in Okinawa (my birthplace). They’re found in pairs, usually guarding doorways, gates and rooftops from evil spirits. A variation of the Chinese guardian lions, they were first brought to the islands in the 15th century and Okinawan variations created.

  
The one on the left always has a closed mouth and the one on the right always with an open mouth. It’s believed that one is male, one female, but there’s always debate on which is which.

  
Some believe the open mouth shisa is the male, scaring away evil spirits, and the closed mouth shisa is the female preserving calm. Others believe the closed mouth shisa is the male keeping evil out, and the female is open mouthed, spreading positivity and inviting good spirits.

  
This is my version of the closed mouth shisa, blocking evil spirits in the year ahead.

  
I created the artwork by first illustrating the figure. I then had the artwork lasercut/engraved into thick wood. I hand-painted all details with acrylic paint. Please understand this is a handmade item, so will have textures and organic maker marks.

  
The artwork has been professionally framed with a high quality bespoke frame. The moulding is white, mount is cream, in a perspex front box frame.

  
This Shisa should be hung on the left when paired with the other Shisa.

Lucky Guardian Shisa Dog (left)

**Project: Collaboration with LG Electronics Korea and BE BIG COMPANY on Ground220, Seoul**

​

In partnership with **LG Electronics Korea** and **BE BIG COMPANY**, I contributed to the “**Ground220**” space in Seoul, a dynamic project aimed at fostering positive energy in daily routines to inspire transformative life changes.

​

**Exterior and Interior Illustrations:** 

I created vibrant illustrations for the installation on both the front facade and terrace of the Ground220 building, setting an engaging visual tone for the space. Additionally, my interior installation illustrations infused the environment with a cheerful and inviting aesthetic, enhancing the visitor experience.

  
More of the project here: https://www.seasonofvictory.com/lg-ground220-installation

Summer Mural Installation Illustration – Seoul Korea

Die-cut wooden psychedelic drippy ice cream cone with a melting smiley face.

Inspired by memories of Summer music festivals, and hot, sunny beaches.

  
The artwork is made of laser-cut wood (die-cut), with dimensional relief details, stained with wood stain. There is a sturdy wire/hanging hardware installed on the back, ready to hang.

Summer Beach Rave – Psychedelic Ice Cream

Swan Lake – inspired by the serene swans of St James's Park in London. On the surface the swans are calm, graceful and serene – underneath the water, they are paddling furiously, working unseen.

  
The artwork is made of laser-cut wood (die-cut), with dimensional relief details, stained with wood stain. There is a sturdy wire/hanging hardware installed on the back, ready to hang.

Swan Lake

The Wood Dragon is a symbol of creativity, abundance and evolution. For the artwork, I've mixed traditional and modern elements. This die-cut wall hanging is intended as a guardian for the room it hangs in and to be a positive symbol for the year ahead.

  
The artwork is made of laser-cut wood (die-cut), with dimensional relief details, stained with wood stain. There is a sturdy wire/hanging hardware installed on the back, ready to hang.

Dragon

Shisa dogs are traditional Ryukyuan guardians, a cross between a lion and a dog, seen everywhere in Okinawa (my birthplace). They’re found in pairs, usually guarding doorways, gates and rooftops from evil spirits. A variation of the Chinese guardian lions, they were first brought to the islands in the 15th century and Okinawan variations created.

  
The one on the left always has a closed mouth and the one on the right always with an open mouth. It’s believed that one is male, one female, but there’s always debate on which is which.

  
Some believe the open mouth shisa is the male, scaring away evil spirits, and the closed mouth shisa is the female preserving calm. Others believe the closed mouth shisa is the male keeping evil out, and the female is open mouthed, spreading positivity and inviting good spirits.

  
This is my version of the open mouth shisa, inviting good spirits in the year ahead.

  
I created the artwork by first illustrating the figure. I then had the artwork lasercut/engraved into thick wood. I hand-painted all details with acrylic paint. Please understand this is a handmade item, so will have textures and organic maker marks.

  
The artwork has been professionally framed with a high quality bespoke frame. The moulding is white, mount is cream, in a perspex front box frame.

  
This Shisa should be hung on the left when paired with the other Shisa.

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Linda Baritski aka SEASONOFVICTORY