Unison is Mayumi Lake’s ongoing series of immersive mixed-media installations, sculptures, and photographic collages. The central motif of this series is Housouge, an ancient Japanese imaginary flower believed to bloom in paradise, symbolizing the delicate border between life and death. These intricate floral patterns have been passed down through Asian history and are prominently featured in sacred spaces, embodying hope within the cyclical nature of life. During periods of social unrest - such as natural disasters, epidemics, and political upheaval - Housouge patterns historically became more large, vivid, and saturated, reflecting resilience and a collective yearning for harmony. In today’s world, where the present often feels intertwined with echoes of the past, Lake’s Housouge-inspired” Unison” seeks to illuminate moments of optimism and hope amidst the turbulence of contemporary society. Mayumi Lake (opens in new window) (b. Osaka, Japan) is a Chicago-based artist. Elevate at 21c presents temporary exhibitions of works by artists living and working in the communities surrounding each 21c Museum Hotel. Elevate provides hotel guests and visitors with unique access to the work of notable regional artists while featuring their work in the context of 21c’s contemporary art space.