Marie Okuma-Johnston, Hyottoko Beauty, mixed media collage, 24 x 18 inches
 
Hyottoko (火男) is a lucky god who once was known to blow into a fire and bring good fortune around him. His face was carved and hung in homes as a way to bring fortune to families. However, his face is so ridiculous looking, he became frequently used in comedy plays and is now worn in dance festivals. Hyottoko Beauty is a reflection on the foolishness and hyperfixation of beauty- as well as our relation to gender identity.