Exploring the Deep Blue: Shihoko Fukumoto's Indigo Sea Exhibition in Ginza

Discover the Depths of Indigo: Shihoko Fukumoto's Exhibition

Starting from November 27, 2023, until December 7, 2023, Wako Ginza is proud to present the exhibition "Indigo Sea" featuring the profound works of renowned artist Shihoko Fukumoto. Held at the Seiko House Hall, this marks Fukumoto's first exhibit at Wako, promising a captivating exploration of the artistry behind indigo dyeing.

Fukumoto expertly combines natural fabrics such as cotton and linen with her innovative designs, creating pieces that resonate deeply with viewers. "The most beautiful indigo in the world comes from Japan," she states, highlighting the rich blue gradients that define her work. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in the stunning indigo ocean created by the artist, a visual feast that reflects the scenic waves along the shore.

Special Artist Appearances

During the exhibition, Shihoko Fukumoto will be present on the following dates: November 27, 29, 30, and December 6 and 7. This is an excellent opportunity to meet the artist and gain insights into her creative process.

Gallery Talk Announcement

On November 29 at 2:00 PM, a gallery talk will be held featuring Fukumoto alongside art critic Koichi Mori. This presentation promises to deepen attendees' understanding of the intersection between traditional techniques and contemporary art.

An Insight into Fukumoto's Techniques

Fukumoto elaborates on her technique, stating, "Cotton fishing nets can achieve deep indigo colors. The beautiful gradients remind one of the ebbing waves. Unfortunately, fishing nets made of cotton and linen have been replaced by plastic several decades ago, which limits the ability to dye them in indigo. For this exhibition, I have dyed 250 meters of fishing net to showcase its unique textures and colors." Guests can expect to be captivated by these delicate creations which pay homage to the past while looking forward to the future.

Among her displayed works, attendees will find pieces like "Intersecting Blues -1" made of flax, measuring 220x200cm, and others that invite contemplation about identity and nature. Her creations not only speak of beauty but also of environmental consciousness.

A Legacy of Art and Recognition

Shihoko Fukumoto is an esteemed artist who graduated from Kyoto City University of Arts’s Western Painting Department in 1968. Her work has been displayed internationally, from significant biennales in Switzerland to exhibitions in top venues across the United States and Japan. Noteworthy exhibitions include "Indigo is the Color of My Dream" in Portland, and her 2015 artwork collection exhibition celebrating the essence of indigo.

Looking ahead, the artist will be featured in "The Tale of Indigo and Crimson" to be held at the Okura Shukokan in Tokyo in 2025. Her works consistently reflect her dedication to exploring the intricate relationship between material, culture, and personal narrative.

Exhibition Details

Exhibition Title: Shihoko Fukumoto - Indigo Sea
Duration: November 27, 2023 - December 7, 2023
Location: Seiko House Hall, 6th Floor, 4-5-11 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Contact Number: 03-3562-2111
Hours: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM (closing at 5:00 PM on the final day)
Admission: Free
Organizer: Wako

Additional Information

Please note that Wako Hall has recently been renamed to Seiko House Hall, representing a shift in its focus toward exhibitions associated with the Seiko Group's broader business initiatives. For those interested in private photography sessions, requests should be made outside of regular operating hours. It's advisable to check Wako's official website and Instagram for the latest updates regarding the exhibition.