#Japan #Tokyo #Field Notes #Koji Yamaguchi #PARCEL Gallery

Discovering the Essence of Urban Life

From September 12, 2026, PARCEL Gallery in Nihonbashi Bakurocho, Tokyo, will unveil a remarkable exhibition titled 'Field Notes', showcasing the captivating works of artist Koji Yamaguchi. This exhibition presents two distinct methodologies of capturing the essence of urban landscapes: quick paintings made on-site and large-scale pieces refined in the artist’s studio from photographs and other media.

A Dive into Quick Painting

At the heart of the exhibition lies Yamaguchi’s innovative approach to quick painting. This method involves painting directly from life, emphasizing the interplay of light and shadow created by trees, an essential motif in his work. This choice is particularly resonant in light of recent global heatwaves, reminding viewers of the comfort and respite offered by natural shade amidst urban settings. Yamaguchi's choice of subjects embodies his personal dialogue with the environment, emphasizing moments that may often be overlooked in the hustle of city life.

The Avant-Garde Large Canvases

In contrast, the exhibition also features large canvases that arise from alternative methods. Yamaguchi utilizes photography to capture the flickering shadows of trees and familiar street corners, which he later interprets through painting in his studio. These two different approaches—one immediate and spontaneous, the other contemplative and deliberate—underscore a shared core of observation. The title 'Field Notes' perfectly encapsulates this concept, reflecting the act of recording experiences from distinct perspectives.

Exhibition Opening and Details

An opening reception is scheduled for September 11, 2026, from 6 PM to 9 PM, providing an opportunity for art enthusiasts to meet the artist and engage with the works. Yamaguchi invites everyone to join together, promising an enriching evening filled with conversation and art. The exhibition runs until October 18, 2026, and will be open from Wednesday to Sunday, 2 PM to 7 PM, while closing on Mondays, Tuesdays, and public holidays.

PARCEL Gallery is located at 2-2-14 Bakurocho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, on the 2nd floor of the Maruka Building.

About Koji Yamaguchi

Born in 1982 in Kawasaki City, Kanagawa, Koji Yamaguchi has been influenced by his teenage passion for skateboarding, providing him with a unique perspective on urban life. His artwork navigates through emotions, the passage of time, and the hidden stories of everyday objects and scenes, often employing a range of techniques such as painting, drawing, and collage. Yamaguchi's ability to shed fresh light on the mundane captivates viewers, inviting them to reconsider their surroundings. After a fruitful three years in New York starting in 2015, he has returned to Tokyo and Kanagawa, continuing to gain recognition with notable projects, including a recent mural initiative at Ginza Sony Park.

About PARCEL Gallery

Established in June 2019, PARCEL is uniquely situated in the DDD HOTEL area of Nihonbashi Bakurocho, housed in a transformed multi-story parking facility that nurtures contemporary art across various cultural programs. In February 2022, PARCEL expanded by opening parcel, its second venue in the adjacent Maruka Building. Together, these spaces strive to relay multifaceted messages to the contemporary world while blending the qualities of a commercial gallery with those of a dynamic project space.

For inquiries regarding artists, artworks, or press matters, please contact PARCEL at [email protected].