Yuki Nishimoto's New Year Art Exhibition: 'Ryutei Shoun'
As the year 2026 begins, the dynamic art of Yuki Nishimoto will take center stage in Fukuoka with the exhibition titled "Ryutei Shoun" (literally 'Dragon Hooves Soaring the Clouds'). This exhibition will be held from January 7 to January 13 at the 5th-floor art gallery of the Daimaru Fukuoka Tenjin store.
Nishimoto, associated with the contemporary art gallery YUGEN Gallery in Tokyo's Minami Aoyama, will showcase approximately 20 new works including the theme of the upcoming zodiac sign, the horse. In ancient times, the horse symbolized progress, leaps forward, and success, making it a cherished auspice. This exhibition aims to reflect a powerful drive towards the future, resonating with the optimism of the New Year.
The title "Ryutei Shoun" evokes the image of dragon hooves soaring through the clouds, capturing the essence of robust energy and movement. Nishimoto's unique style blends the mediums of ink and ceramics, resulting in 'ceramic ink painting,' a form that expresses the vitality of life and a refreshing spirit fitting for the New Year's celebration. His artworks transcend the boundaries of flat and three-dimensional art, creating a strong presence within the gallery space.
A Unique Artistic Expression: Ceramic Ink Painting
Yuki Nishimoto has developed a distinctive art form known as ceramic ink painting, characterized by applying glazes onto ceramic plates. These plates are fired at high temperatures, resulting in an expressive technique that intertwines nature's elements—earth, water, fire, and wind. The process, involving painting with glaze that contains moisture from the soil, culminates in a transformation at approximately 1200 degrees Celsius. Here, a compelling interplay between spontaneity and mystique emerges, imparting textures and depths unattainable in conventional ink on washi paper.
The exhibition will take place at the following venue:
- - Title: Yuki Nishimoto's New Year Art Exhibition: 'Ryutei Shoun'
- - Period: January 7 (Wed) to January 13 (Tue), 2026
- - Location: Daimaru Fukuoka Tenjin Store, East Building, 5th floor Art Gallery
- - Entrance: Free
In addition, the "Ink Painting Museum Toyokawa Inari Yuki Nishimoto Museum" opened in September 2025, located in the historical grounds of Toyokawa Inari. Open to the public on weekends and holidays, the museum hosts over 100 ink paintings ranging from Nishimoto's early works to his most celebrated pieces, establishing it as one of the largest ink painting museums globally.
Visitors can enjoy a special ticket that offers original Nishimoto merchandise, redeemable on-site. This includes an original postcard celebrating the year of the horse during the special event period.
Discover the World of Yuki Nishimoto
Within the YUGEN Gallery's official online store, enthusiasts can view and purchase Nishimoto's giclee artworks. The gallery actively aims to introduce contemporary Japanese art to a broader audience.
Artist Profile: Yuki Nishimoto
Born in 1988 in Kagoshima Prefecture, Yuki Nishimoto is affiliated with Jeane, a consulting firm that utilizes digital marketing to provide arts and lifestyle services. Since his recognition with the World Best Artwork Award at the 'Embracing Our Differences' exhibition in Florida in 2012, Nishimoto has continuously pushed boundaries. He has hosted live painting events across Hong Kong, participated in Art Basel Hong Kong 2023, and contributed works to various prestigious projects and exhibitions.
Nishimoto’s exhibitions include a diverse range of locations and themes. As 2025 comes to a close and 2026 begins, explore the multifaceted universe of Yuki Nishimoto across various exhibitions.
For more details about the exhibition and his works, visit the official sites:
With events and experiences designed to resonate with art lovers, Yuki Nishimoto’s exhibitions are more than just displays; they are an invitation to explore the depth and vigor of contemporary Japanese art.