#Japan #Tokyo #SIGNAL Gallery #Makoto Egashira #Tachibana Flowers

'The Fragrance of Tachibana Flowers Awaiting May' Exhibition

Starting April 14, 2026, the SIGNAL gallery in Toranomon will feature a significant exhibition titled 'The Fragrance of Tachibana Flowers Awaiting May' by renowned contemporary artist Makoto Egashira. Known for his unique artistic interpretation of ordinary items, Egashira's works bring to life familiar elements from everyday Japanese culture.

Artwork Overview

The exhibition showcases works that incorporate the post-war symbol of Japanese households, the rose-patterned blanket. Egashira employs this motif to create sculptures and spatial installations that highlight a kitsch aesthetic interwoven with evocative memories. The exhibition's title draws inspiration from a poem in the 'Kokin Wakashū', which reflects on the nostalgic scents associated with the Tachibana flower, eliciting thoughts of a beloved from the past. Visitors will likely feel a poignant sense of nostalgia as they navigate through Egashira's art, which juxtaposes personal and collective memories.

By transforming everyday textiles into art, he awakens the 'lingering scent of memories' buried deep within our hearts. The experience promises to encapsulate the intertwining of discomfort and warmth characteristic of Egashira's artistic vision, inviting everyone to absorb the profound implications that these works communicate.

About the Artist

Photo: Kaho Okazaki

Makoto Egashira has garnered attention for his innovative use of flower-patterned blankets, a culturally significant material in post-war Japan. His accolades include the Special Prize at the 18th Taro Okamoto Contemporary Art Awards in 2015 for his work that adorned a coffin with a blanket, and the Grand Prize at SICF17 in 2016 for his floral-inspired toilet installation. Beyond exhibitions, Egashira has collaborated with various artists and brands, including contributing to Yuki's music video 'My Lovely Ghost' and Gucci's short film 'Kaguya by Gucci.' He will also participate in the upcoming Tokyo Girls Collection in 2025.

Exhibition Details

• - Duration: April 14 (Wednesday) – May 23 (Saturday)
• - Opening Reception: April 17 (Friday) from 18:00 to 20:00
• - Visiting Hours:

- Tuesday: 10:00 – 20:00 (Gallery Only)
- Wednesday to Friday: 11:00 – 23:00 (Café & Gallery)
(After 18:00, it transitions to bar time)
- Saturday: 11:00 – 18:00 (Café & Gallery)

• - Closed on: Sundays, Mondays, and public holidays. Please check our website or Instagram for updates on private events or unexpected closings.
• - Admission Fee: Free
• - Location: 1-2-11 Toranomon, The ParkRex TORANOMON 1F, Minato-ku, Tokyo
• - Phone: 03‐6205‐8220
• - Website: SIGNAL
• - Official Instagram: @signal_socialissuegallery
• - Access: A 5-minute walk from Toranomon Hills Station (Hibiya Line, A2 Exit) and a 3-minute walk from Toranomon Station (Ginza Line, 2a Exit).

About SIGNAL

SIGNAL functions as a social issue gallery and café, pioneering an innovative space where visitors play an integral role in both input and output of information. Each art exhibition serves as a platform for attendees to engage with latent social issues and express their reflections via surveys, which are subsequently analyzed to inspire solutions toward societal challenges. This process emphasizes the power of art to stimulate dialogue and collaborative projects across various industries, aiming to unearth unseen societal problems and forge inclusive paths toward resolution.

Company Overview

SIGNING stands out as a 'Social Designing Company' committed to addressing business and social challenges concurrently. Our mission focuses on providing integrated solutions that leverage innovation and creativity to tackle pressing issues facing organizations today in the context of rapid technological and societal change. Located in Minato-ku, Tokyo, our team is focused on promoting advancements in social entrepreneurship and sustainable growth.

Further exhibitions are planned, including a return from Makoto Egashira in April 2026. Please note that dates are subject to change without prior announcement.