#Japan #Tokyo #ArtSticker #The Chain Museum #Aiko Miyanaga

Aiko Miyanaga's Solo Exhibition 'Manshu no En'

The Chain Museum is excited to announce the upcoming solo exhibition titled "Manshu no En" by contemporary artist Aiko Miyanaga, commencing on August 30, 2025, at the Gallery & Restaurant Butaiura in Azabudai Hills, Tokyo. This event presents a unique opportunity to delve into the artistic interpretations of time and memory as they intertwine with the history of the surrounding community.

Miyanaga, who is known for meticulously capturing the passage of time through her artworks, will unveil pieces that reflect the rich cultural tapestry of the Azabudai area, both past and present. The neighborhood is a living testament to various lifestyles and stories that continue to thrive. In her latest works, she has engaged in field research to explore the history of the locale, creating pieces that express the ongoing transformation of the city.

"Manshu no En"—translated as "The Garden of Eternal Life"—takes inspiration from a simple yet profound interaction with the local environment. It draws from the sentiment of nostalgia expressed by long-time residents. During her research, Miyanaga conversed with couples who nostalgically recalled the nearby post office, highlighting its significance as a reference point for their memories and the city’s landscape. They reminisced, “There once was a ramen shop here, and I think a greengrocer was located just down the street.” Although those businesses have long vanished, their stories remain etched in the community's fabric.

The post office, modestly named “Manshu-en Mae” (in front of the Garden of Eternal Life) becomes a canvas for Miyanaga’s reflections. Observing it conjures an array of memories—its status as a marker for community stories. The artist perceives the concept of "Manshu" to symbolize the continuous flow of life and a celebration of existence, inspiring her to unravel this narrative through her upcoming exhibition.

About Aiko Miyanaga

Born in 1974 in Kyoto, Japan, Miyanaga is currently based in the same city. She holds a master's degree with a focus on advanced artistic expression from the Tokyo University of the Arts. Her work has garnered significant attention, particularly for installations that meld everyday objects with a narrative of time, manifested by unique mediums such as camphor and ceramics. Recent notable exhibitions include her solo presentation "1900 – 2025 : souffle de lumière" scheduled in Paris in 2025, alongside her participation in several contemporary art exhibitions across Japan.

Exhibition Details

• - Exhibition Title: Manshu no En
• - Dates: August 30, 2025 - October 19, 2025
• - Venue: Gallery & Restaurant Butaiura, Azabudai Hills, Tokyo
• - Address: 5-8-1 Toranomon, Minato City, Tokyo, 105-0001, Japan
• - Opening Reception: August 29, 2025, from 6:00 PM
• - Preview for Media: August 29, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• - Admission: Free
• - Accessibility: The venue offers barrier-free access and facilities for wheelchairs and strollers.

Miyanaga’s exhibition will serve not just as a visual engagement with art but also as a contemplative space inviting conversations about the dynamics of community and memory. As a hub where artistic expression meets gastronomy, the Gallery & Restaurant Butaiura promises an experience that interlaces art with the dialogues it inspires.

For more information on the exhibition and featured artworks, visit ArtSticker or follow Butaiura on Instagram.

About The Chain Museum

The Chain Museum aims to provide platforms to connect art enthusiasts with artists, fostering unique interactions between art and its audience. The gallery showcases a wide selection of contemporary works, allowing for tactile experiences in artistic expression.

Learn more about The Chain Museum's initiatives and upcoming events at The Chain Museum Website.