#Japan #Tokyo #Exhibition 2025 #YUGEN Gallery #Mikio Hasui

Discover the Beauty of the Sea: Mikio Hasui's Upcoming Exhibition

Starting June 7, 2025, YUGEN Gallery in Minato, Tokyo will host an exhibition titled "Seventeen Portraits of the Sea" featuring the captivating works of photographer Mikio Hasui. This exhibition offers a unique look at the relationship between Japan's coastline and its nuclear power plants.

Mikio Hasui, an accomplished photographer since the early 1990s, has focused on the theme of "the laws of nature" and has showcased breathtaking landscapes and natural elements across the globe. His works are not only visually stunning but also carry significant cultural resonance, as evidenced by the inclusion of his series "PEACE LAND" and "Yomu Shashin" in the collections of the Bibliothèque nationale de France in 2009.

Over the period from 2023 to 2025, Hasui captured the serene seascape surrounding 17 nuclear power plants across Japan. In the photographs, man-made structures have been digitally removed, leaving only the tranquil beauty of the sea. This technique aims to amplify the natural essence of the waters and to encourage viewers to reflect on the relationship between humanity and nature.

The exhibition will mark the first public display of these artworks, with the artist having visited all nuclear plants in Japan, except for the under-construction Ohma nuclear plant in Aomori Prefecture. This initiative is particularly poignant in the wake of the dialogues surrounding nuclear power, urging audiences to consider the harmony and dissonance existing within these environments.

Earlier in 2025, an exhibition titled "Beauty Resides Even in Decay" toured Tokyo and Fukuoka, capturing the artistic essence of traditional Kutani ceramics impacted by the Noto Peninsula earthquake. It resonated with audiences by highlighting the beauty inherent in cultural crafts and the cycles of nature amidst adversity.

Mikio Hasui’s work spans over three decades, with numerous oceanic landscapes created worldwide. His portfolio is marked by meticulous attention to detail and an understanding of the interconnectedness of human civilization and the natural world. This upcoming exhibition is therefore anticipated as a thought-provoking exploration of coexistence with nature in a world often marred by human presence.

The exhibition will be available for viewing from June 7 to June 23, 2025, at YUGEN Gallery. The gallery will host a series of artist talks where Hasui will discuss the creative process and influences behind his works. These sessions will be scheduled throughout the exhibition period on June 8, 14, 15, 21, and 22.

In addition to the exhibition, artworks will be available for viewing and purchase online at the YUGEN Gallery official online store. For those interested, further details can be accessed through the YUGEN Gallery website.

Exhibition Details

• - Title: Seventeen Portraits of the Sea
• - Duration: June 7, 2025 - June 23, 2025
• - Gallery Hours: Weekdays 13:00 - 19:00, Saturday, Sunday, and Holidays 13:00 - 20:00. Last day closes at 17:00.
• - Entry Fee: Free

About Mikio Hasui

Mikio Hasui (b. 1955, Tokyo) began his photography journey at an early age, inspired by his amateur photographer father. After studying under Tohru Moriya, an acclaimed art director, and establishing himself through various creative avenues, Hasui emerged as a unique voice in contemporary photography. His work emphasizes the intersection of humanity and nature, celebrating the intricate beauty found within this relationship.

As YUGEN Gallery continues to cultivate a space for modern artists, Hasui's exhibition perfectly aligns with their mission to present multifaceted artistic expressions while sharing Japanese art's inherent allure. Stay connected with YUGEN Gallery through their official site and social media for the latest updates and insights into contemporary art practices.