As the world of gaming continues to grow and evolve, it's not uncommon for players to spend long hours in front of their screens, immersed in the excitement of the game. While this can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience, it can also be mentally and physically draining. That's where the power of art comes in.

As I’ve developed my gaming space — the room filled to the brim with peripherals and other electronics — I’ve found the additions of art to be a game changer. Incorporating art into your gaming setup can have a number of benefits, both for your physical space and for your overall well-being. Here are just a few reasons why having art in your gaming setup is a good idea:

• Art can add visual interest and depth to your space. A well-chosen piece of art can be a conversation starter, a source of inspiration, or simply a nice thing to look at when you need a break from the screen.
• Art can help to create a more calming and relaxing atmosphere. Having a piece of art that you find soothing or meditative can help to offset some of that stress and create a more balanced environment.
• Art can help to personalize your space and make it feel more like home. Your gaming setup is your own personal retreat, and adding art that reflects your personality and interests can help to make it feel more welcoming and comfortable.
• Art can be a source of inspiration and creativity. Many gamers are also creative individuals, and having art in your space can help to spark new ideas and keep your mind fresh and engaged.

Incorporating art into your gaming setup is an easy and effective way to enhance your experience — how can you go about doing so? Of course, there’s plenty of video-game related paintings and sculptures one can buy, but another opportunity in art comes with getting to explore different cultures. Of course, I’ve explained in the past my fondness for modern Asian art, and explained how the work Takashi Murakami intersects with gaming in many ways. It’s been an exciting trend in recent years to see deals such as Murakami’s work with FaZe Clan, as well APPortfolio’s partnership with Disney. Exciting new art projects exposing people to interesting new work continue to be on the rise. I recently found another artist that strikes those same chords: Takeru Amano. 

Amano is someone that has grown in prominence in the art world over the last few years — well-known for many of his exhibitions, as well as his art book, Icons. He’s a unique artist because of his diverse range of influences that have shaped his art. He was born in Japan and grew up immersed in Japanese culture, but he also spent several years living in New York, where he studied engraving. This experience exposed him to new artistic influences and helped him to develop a very unique style. 

Upon returning to Japan, Amano's art began to incorporate elements of both classicism and modernity, as well as the influence of Japanese pop culture. This combination of influences has resulted in a style that is uniquely his own, characterized by a blend of traditional and contemporary elements and a vibrant color palette. Additionally, Amano's attention to detail and accuracy of line set him apart from many other artists, adding a level of technical precision to his work.

In recent years, Amano has turned his attention to digital media — creating a number of artworks that incorporate 3D modeling. Despite this shift in media, his art remains inspired by nature and the natural world, and he continues to be recognized as one of the most talented and innovative artists of his generation.

I recently had the opportunity to acquire a work of Amano’s — the Venus and Cat Vase. Takeru Amano's Venus and Cat Vase is a truly extraordinary piece of art that would be a welcome addition to any gaming setup. Made of epoxy, it feels incredibly durable and seems like it could last an extremely long time.

The three-dimensional design is really cool and looks very unique, with intricate details that are sure to catch the eye. The coloring and texture of the vase are also noteworthy, with a vibrant palette that really makes it stand out. It's truly a centerpiece for any room, and would be a great conversation starter for any gaming session.

But the Venus and Cat Vase isn't just a great art piece – its name mentions its practical application, being a perfect container for flowers or other types have plants, which have been shown to have numerous benefits in a gaming space. Studies have shown that plants can improve air quality, reduce stress, and even boost productivity. So not only is the Venus and Cat Vase a beautiful and unique art piece, it's also a functional object that can contribute to a healthier and more enjoyable space.

In short, the Venus and Cat Vase is a beautiful addition for anyone who values both aesthetics and wellness. Its unique design, coloring, and texture make it truly one of a kind, and it's sure to be a treasured addition to any tech setup. 

The Venus and Cat Vase will be on sale tomorrow, Jan. 7.