Alexis Bacci - Kunoichi - original drawing

The Ninja Woman, according to Alexis Bacci

“Kunoichi” by Alexis Bacci is a work on paper combining black stone and watercolor, where the mysterious grace of a ninja reveals itself. Between strength and delicacy, the artist captures the beauty of a feminine figure both warrior-like and poetic. A unique piece of great graphic intensity.

Alexis Bacci is a contemporary artist whose line blends academic precision with instinctive energy. A graduate of Gobelins in 2001, his visual world is at once raw and refined. We had the chance to ask him a few questions about this original work:

•⁠ ⁠What is the origin of this work?
"It’s a pin-up that was originally part of a triptych. I created it for an exhibition a few years ago. There were renowned illustrators involved, so I really wanted to give my best and not look ridiculous. There was a Native American woman, an American football player, and then this kunoichi ready to draw her katana. At that time I was doing a lot of Japonisme, so it was also a natural path to take."

•⁠ ⁠What place does it hold in your creative journey?
"Working in large format with watercolor is always delicate. I was also experimenting with black stone, which cannot be erased. Technically, it validated a certain way I have of using watercolor."

•⁠ ⁠Any anecdotes about its creation or reception?
"I was publishing ero-guro fanzines in risography, and I included it in volume 2 of Akasake. Full-page in modified four-color print, it was the final page. It was perfect because you don’t know whether she is sheathing her weapon or about to draw it. She illustrates the adage 斬捨御免 (Kiri-sutte gomen), which literally means 'permission to cut and abandon.' It referred to the right of samurai, in feudal Japan, to kill on the spot any commoner who insulted them or threatened their honor. One might imagine this young woman’s radical way of settling the matter of street harassment."

•⁠ ⁠What are you working on now?
"I’m working on my next comic book, a peplum created in direct color. And above all, thanks to Achetez de l’Art, we’re organizing an exhibition on the research for Possessions, published by Glénat last April. It will also feature watercolors that extend the work done for the book, allowing it to exist longer and in more detail. Opening, meeting, and book signing will take place on October 2nd."

Artwork details

• Size: 60 x 45 cm
• Medium: black stone and watercolor on Arches watercolor paper
• Signed lower left

Shipping

Each artwork is carefully packed and protected for shipping in an ultra-resistant tube.

Shipments within France and Europe are handled by Chronopost, ensuring fast and secure delivery, arriving the day after dispatch before 1:00 p.m. In Paris, courier delivery is also possible upon request, at no extra cost.