#Japan #Tokyo #Nakajima Art #Pei Wang #Tenpen

Pei Wang's New Exhibition 'Tenpen'

From May 26 to June 8, 2026, Nakajima Art in Ginza is set to host the new exhibition titled 'Tenpen' by acclaimed Japanese painter Pei Wang. After living in Japan for over two decades, Wang has dedicated her artistic journey to capturing the essence of children, particularly those from her homeland in rural China. Her artwork reflects the pride and dignity of young girls living in harsh mountain environments, as well as the lives of children from ethnic minorities who embody a rich cultural heritage.

Having become a mother in 2019, Wang's perspective on children has evolved. Through daily experiences with her child, she derives immense inspiration, prompting her to explore children's emotions through a maternal lens. Wang captures the universally appealing gestures and innocent expressions of children, revealing their inner strength and vitality. Her works portray delicate feelings, fleeting moments of sadness, and serene happiness rooted in ordinary life.

The upcoming exhibition promises to showcase various artworks that reflect the wide spectrum of emotions children experience and the moments of joy found in everyday life. Wang invites viewers to engage with these poignant representations, embracing the opportunity to discover the beauty and complexity of childhood.

In 'Tenpen,' which translates to 'on the summit,' many pieces feature a sky-inspired blue palette, emblematic of freedom and aspiration. Wang expresses, “I paint children as if they were self-portraits. They help me understand our humanity. The freshness of experience that only childhood can offer is fundamental to leading a rich life as an adult.”

The dialogue between her role as a mother and an artist allows her to reconnect with her own childhood, nurturing the 'inner child' within herself. This exploration teaches her that even the most trivial moments in life carry profound meaning.

About Pei Wang

Born in Tianjin, China, Wang's journey into the world of Japanese painting commenced after attending a special lecture by the late Ikufuu Hirayama at the Beijing Central Academy of Craft Arts and Design (now Tsinghua University Art Academy). Fascinated by the unique pigments used in traditional Japanese painting, she moved to Japan in 1998 to pursue her passion. After spending a year mastering the language, she enrolled in Hiroshima City University’s graduate program, where she specialized in Japanese painting, earning her doctorate in 2007.

Wang is committed to bridging cultural gaps between Japan and China, collaborating with her husband, lacquer artist Tomoji Otsuka, to revive and promote the beauty of traditional Japanese painting and lacquer art in China. She has lectured at various universities across China, sharing the spirit and techniques of Japanese traditional art with young people in her home country and serves as a special lecturer at the China Central Academy of Fine Arts.

The bond between Pei Wang and Nakajima Art dates back to her student days in Japan. While studying in Hiroshima, she visited Tokyo frequently for art exhibitions. Her piece 'Village Schoolchildren,' which earned her first selection at the Japan Art Institute Exhibition in 2004, captured the gallery's attention, leading to her first solo exhibition in 2007. Since then, Wang has held exhibitions approximately every few years, with 'Tenpen' marking her eighth solo exhibition.

Exhibition Details

• - Exhibition Name: Pei Wang's New Exhibition 'Tenpen'
• - Dates: May 26 (Tue) - June 8 (Mon), 2026; 11:00 AM - 6:30 PM (Closed on public holidays)
• - Location: Nakajima Art, 5-5-9 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 3rd & 5th Floors
• - Contact: 03-3574-6008
• - Website: Nakajima Art
• - Admission: Free

During the exhibition, past works will also be on display, alongside the sale of original postcards and a limited-edition sticker, created specifically for this show. An online shop is set to launch with additional original merchandise. Additionally, workshops titled “Creating and Painting Skin Tones” are scheduled for May 29 and 30. Attendees will also have a chance to view Wang’s earlier works displayed on the 5th floor, providing a unique opportunity to trace her artistic journey over two decades.

Celebrate the emotional depth within commonplace moments captured by Pei Wang at Nakajima Art this spring. Don't miss the chance to connect with her work and the underlying themes of resilience and joy that define her artistic narrative.