#Japan #Tokyo #Art Brut #Jennifer Gilbert

Exploring the World of Art Brut in Tokyo

The exhibition titled "Unveiling the Unknown—The Present of British Art Brut Artists" is set to launch on June 21, 2025, at the Shibuya Park Gallery in Tokyo. Running until August 31, the exhibition promises to be a visual feast, combining both legendary and emerging British artists working in the field of art brut or outsider art.

Guest Curator: Jennifer Gilbert

The exhibition features the expertise of guest curator Jennifer Gilbert, who is highly regarded in the UK for her work in the art brut and outsider art scene. Established in 2008, Gilbert has worked collaboratively with neurodiverse and self-taught artists internationally, showcasing their work in art fairs and museums worldwide. She founded the Jennifer Lauren Gallery to promote overlooked artists and support their creative endeavors, focusing on accessibility and inclusion in art institutions.

Highlights of the Exhibition

1. A Cross-Generational Collection of Art Brut
This exhibition gathers an impressive array of works from 11 British artists spanning multiple generations. Renowned figures like Madge Gill and Scottie Wilson will share the space with glimmering new talent. Visitors can expect to see a diverse range of artistic expressions—from intricate paintings to engaging sculptures that invite viewers into the enigmatic worlds each artist creates.

2. Dichotomy of Spaces: Black and White vs. Colorful
The gallery will host two themed areas: a stark black-and-white room and a vibrant colorful one. The former, rich in traditional aesthetics, will display works featuring female motifs and refined organic lines. In contrast, the colorful space will showcase pop-art pieces, whimsical creatures, and nostalgic themes, designed to stimulate the viewer's imagination and provoke thought.

3. Interactive Events with the Curator
Attendees can engage with Jennifer Gilbert during her opening talk on June 21, followed by a guided gallery tour the next day. These events, equipped with English-Japanese translation and sign language interpretation, will highlight the current state of art brut in the UK and the significance of supporting diverse artistic voices.

Featured Artists

The exhibition will feature iconic figures such as:

• - Madge Gill (1882–1961): Known as one of the UK's foremost female outsider artists, Gill's ethereal ink drawings of female figures emerged from a mystical belief in a guiding spirit, producing intense imagery that captivates viewers.
• - Andrew Johnston (1986–Present): Johnston's work is deeply rooted in communication and family ties, capturing real-life inspirations through drawing and ceramics with a precise and intentional style.
• - Cameron Morgan (1965–Present): A prolific artist based in Glasgow, Morgan’s diverse creations from drawing to pottery are characterized by bright, pop colors and an emphasis on themes often overlooked in everyday life.

Other notable artists include Nigel Kingsbury, Carla McWilliam, Jesse James Nagel, Valerie Potter, and more, each contributing unique perspectives and styles that challenge conventional narratives in the art world.

Exhibition Details

Dates: June 21, 2025 - August 31, 2025
Location: Shibuya Park Gallery, Tokyo (1F Shibuya-ku Rodo Fukushi Kaikan)
Hours: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Closed: Mondays (Open on July 21 and August 11; Closed on July 22 and August 12)
Admission: Free
Website: Exhibition details

The Shibuya Park Gallery aims to foster a deeper understanding of diversity through art by showcasing various works, including art brut. Visitors are encouraged to explore the narratives embedded in each piece, allowing them to connect with the array of human experiences represented.

Dive into the captivating realm of British Art Brut and expand your horizons at this unique exhibition in Tokyo.