【Gate of Moonlight】 Rena −Japan

As we grow up, we are often expected to be "realistic" and "live correctly," and before we know it, we put aside the pure desires and aspirations deep within our hearts.
The black cat depicted in this artwork represents my former self, and symbolizes the "true self" within each viewer.
The large arc of light is not just the moon. It is a door and gate that gathers lost light again and connects to a new future. The countless particles of light enveloping the city represent the often overlooked richness of everyday life—the small joys and hopes scattered throughout.
The 21st century is an era filled with more information and choices than ever before. On the other hand, people tend to lose touch with their own sensibilities and dreams as they become preoccupied with comparing themselves to others, efficiency, and achieving results.
That's why I incorporated the message of "remembering the light within ourselves" into this art.
Light is not something distant and special; it already exists within us. The heart that finds beauty in the sky, the feeling of cherishing someone, the sensitivity to notice small joys—each of these is a fragment of light that we inherently possess.
What the cat is gazing at is not an unknown world, but the dreams and hopes that have always been within it.
I hope this artwork will help each viewer remember their own inner light and serve as a gateway to returning to their dreams.