As a gamer who’s had the privilege of traversing countless digital landscapes and virtual worlds, stepping into the physical realm of Yoshitomo Nara‘s exhibition at BLUM Tokyo was nothing short of breathtaking. The fusion of his familiar wide-eyed characters with Henri Matisse’s cutouts felt like a dream collaboration between two artistic titans from different eras.
Japanese artist Yoshitomo Nara recently revealed a fresh collection of paintings and sketches at BLUM’s Shibuya branch. This latest display is significantly influenced by Nara’s massive sculptures, along with the cut-out artworks that French artist Henri Matisse created towards the end of his career.
“I Draw the Line” showcases Nara’s recognizable, wide-eyed figures, skillfully depicted with loose, expressive brushstrokes. Accompanying these compositions are phrases in both English and Japanese, ranging from “Hurray for You!” to “We Are Outlaws Indeed!”. These pieces are crafted on repurposed wood panels, a preferred medium by the artist due to its familiarity and convenience. Sustainability and the unique textures provided by wood grain are key elements he aims to highlight in his subjects. Although his work can sometimes require intricate detailing, like the highly-detailed painting “Midnight Vampire” (1999), Nara’s recent works were produced using Sakura paint markers during his stay in Toya, a village reminiscent of the rural area he grew up near Aomori.
In a statement, BLUM explained that the sea, mountains, and volcanoes in Nara’s work reflect his strong connection to the local environment and his environmental concerns. A girl wearing a wolf-like hood reminds us of an animal no longer found in Japan, while a child with cat-like eyes and fangs is reminiscent of indigenous folklore. Earlier themes such as a house with a sloping roof, a fir tree, and puddles also reappear, showcasing Nara’s consistency in thought as he evolves his artistic style.
In a seemingly innocent manner, Nara’s artistic approach, reminiscent of childhood, carries profound activist messages. These include his involvement in countercultural movements during the 1950s and ’60s, as well as his ongoing opposition to war and nuclear weapons. The exhibition I Draw the Line is accessible at BLUM Tokyo until January 11, 2025.
BLUM
Harajuku Jingu-no-Mori 5F,
1-14-34 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku Tokyo
Read More
Sorry. No data so far.
2024-11-25 23:56