#Japan #Shinjuku #Decameron #Karumi Miyoshi #Giant Kickoff

Giant Kickoff: Karumi Miyoshi's Groundbreaking Exhibition

On November 21, 2025, the renowned artist Karumi Miyoshi will unveil a revolutionary exhibition titled Giant Kickoff at Decameron, nestled in the vibrant district of Kabukicho, Shinjuku. This marks Miyoshi's first solo exhibition in an exhibition format, transitioning from predominantly live performances to presenting a concept that embodies his artistic exploration.

Exploring Body and Presence

Miyoshi has been delving into the concepts of body extension and shared corporeality. Through various mediums such as performance art and soft sculpture, he attempts to humanize complex philosophies, allowing audiences to engage physically and emotionally. Giant Kickoff showcases the culmination of his work, featuring the impressive piece titled Daikyokyu, alongside a series of visual forms developed throughout its creation.

Daikyokyu: A Collaboration of Bodies

Daikyokyu is an extraordinary performance piece characterized by a 25-meter inflatable sculpture in the shape of a soccer player. Inside, five performers maneuver the massive structure, coordinating their movements in a collective effort to kick a giant 2.8-meter ball towards a goal. The experience immediately captivates with its visual impact and underlying humor. Yet, deeper engagement reveals subtle layers of meaning, with familiar elements of soccer transformed into a profound commentary on human connections and the dynamics of existence.

The Performance Experience

The performance doesn’t just take place within Decameron. In addition, a showcase of Daikyokyu will occur at the nearby Shinjuku Cine City Square, captured on film and displayed within the exhibition. This multifaceted approach aims to ignite a conversation about the intricacies of interpersonal relationships and the surreal nature of our shared experiences.

The Artist's Reflection

Miyoshi reflects on his work stating, “By incorporating the body of another within my clothing, I challenge the boundaries of what constitutes my own body.” This artist's journey prompts an examination of bodily boundaries and interactions. He questions the essence of movement and purpose, inviting viewers to introspectively engage with the performance as a part of themselves. The sensory engagement fosters a unique dialogue that transcends mechanical interactions and taps into raw, emotional communication.

Artist Profile: Karumi Miyoshi

Born in 2001, Karumi Miyoshi is a Tokyo-based artist whose diverse portfolio includes performance, painting, video, and installation art. He critically investigates the influence of clothing on the body and utilizes oversized garments to integrate others into his performances. His recent exhibitions include ‘Polyparallax, BENTEN 2025’ and ‘The Hill of Science and Art.’ Additionally, he has participated in numerous stage performances highlighting contemporary movement.

About Decameron

Opened in 2020, Decameron lies at the heart of Kabukicho. The gallery's name pays homage to Bocaccio's literary work detailing the plague's impact on Europe. The venue comprises an exhibition space on the second floor, with the ground floor bar serving as a communal area where artists and visitors converge. Continually pushing the boundaries of experimental modern art, Decameron has expanded its exhibition space in 2021 and remains a pivotal location for contemporary artistic dialogue.

Exhibition Details

Exhibition Title: Giant Kickoff
Dates: November 21, 2025 - November 21, 2025
Venue: Decameron
Address: 1-12-4 Kabukicho, Shinjuku, Tokyo
Hours: 8 PM - 7 AM
Closed on: Mondays

To experience this extraordinary exhibition, visit Decameron's website or follow them on Instagram. Prepare for an unforgettable journey where art, performance, and human connection intertwine.