Experience the Charming Hell: YUGEN Gallery Hosts Unique Rakugo Event

YUGEN Gallery Hosts a Special Event: 'Rakugo & Talk: "Charming Hell"'

YUGEN Gallery, located in the heart of Tokyo's Minato district (3-1-31 KD Minato Aoyama Building 4F), is excited to announce a unique event as part of the ongoing solo exhibition by renowned artist Kotobuki Shiriagari titled "Kawaii Hell". Scheduled for October 11, 2025 (Saturday), the special event will feature an engaging session of Rakugo, a traditional form of Japanese verbal entertainment, alongside a talk with the artist himself.

Kotobuki Shiriagari, celebrated for his works such as "Midnight Yajisan Kitasan" and "Earth Defense Family", is known for his versatility in comics, film, and art. With over four decades of experience, he dives deep into substantial themes, and this time he explores the concept of 'Hell'. His ambitious installation will transform the gallery, covering its walls with a whimsical interpretation of demons and yokai, ostensibly remolding 'Kawaii' aesthetics into a contemporary form.

The event will feature notable Rakugo artist Tachikawa Sunshi, a promising young performer on the cusp of his full promotion next autumn. Recognized for his depth of knowledge and storytelling prowess, Sunshi will treat the audience to a series of Rakugo tales centered around the theme of Hell, followed by an interactive talk session with Shiriagari. This blend of traditional and contemporary art promises to create a one-of-a-kind experience for attendees.

Due to high interest, the on-site attendance (limited to 30 guests) is fully booked. However, to ensure that everyone can participate, YUGEN Gallery will be live streaming the event via its official Instagram account. Whether you can attend in person or not, don't miss the chance to witness the intriguing world of “Kawaii Hell” unfold before you online. Watch the Live Stream Here

Those who complete a questionnaire during the event will be rewarded with a special bookmark inspired by Kotobuki Shiriagari's installation artwork. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the fascinating blend of laughter and darkness.

Event Overview

- Title: Rakugo & Talk: "Charming Hell"
- Guest: Rakugo artist Tachikawa Sunshi
- Date and Time: October 11 (Saturday) at 15:00 - 20:00
- Program:

- 15:00 - Rakugo performance related to Hell
- 15:30 - Talk session with Kotobuki Shiriagari & Tachikawa Sunshi
- 16:30 - Reception
- 20:00 - Closing

- Capacity: 30 guests (Reservation required)
- Location: YUGEN Gallery
- Address: 3-1-31 KD Minato Aoyama Building 4F, Minato-ku, Tokyo
- Admission: Free

Exhibition Overview

- Title: Kawaii Hell
- Duration: October 4 (Saturday) - October 19 (Sunday)
- Opening Hours:

- Weekdays: 13:00 - 19:00
- Weekends & Holidays: 13:00 - 20:00
- Note: Last day ends at 17:00. Admission closes 30 minutes before closing time. No holidays during the exhibition.

- Location: YUGEN Gallery
- Admission Fee: Free

For more details regarding the exhibition, please visit the official gallery website: YUGEN Gallery.

About the Artist

Kotobuki Shiriagari: A prominent manga artist born in Shizuoka in 1958, Shiriagari graduated from Tamabi’s graphic design course and debuted in 1984 with "Ryusei Kachou" in the 'Shonen Sunday' magazine. He quickly gained attention for his unique brand of gag manga that focuses on parody. His notable works have garnered several awards, including the 15th Agency for Cultural Affairs Media Arts Festival’s Excellence Award in the Manga category. Having received several honors including the Purple Ribbon Medal, Shiriagari continues to influence the art scene as a part-time guest professor at Kobe Design University.

About YUGEN Gallery

Established in February 2022, YUGEN Gallery specializes in modern Japanese art, with locations in Tokyo's Minato and Fukuoka's Tenjin. The name 'YUGEN' is inspired by the Japanese aesthetic concept, encapsulating depth, elegance, and grace, aspiring to convey the allure of Japanese art to a broader audience. The gallery features a variety of works from emerging contemporary artists and offers English and Japanese online sales on its website to reach art lovers worldwide.