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The New YUGEN: Between Depth and Play Exhibition

YUGEN Gallery, located at Minami Aoyama, Tokyo, is thrilled to announce its upcoming group exhibition entitled "New YUGEN: Between Depth and Play," set to open on January 31, 2026. This exhibition marks the gallery's fourth anniversary and aims to delve into the unique Japanese aesthetic concept of Yūgen, which emphasizes depth, beauty, and the mysterious allure of the unseen.

Founded in February 2022 in Shibuya, Tokyo, YUGEN Gallery focuses primarily on modern Japanese art and the notion of Yūgen is central to its mission. This exhibition will explore the intersection of tradition and contemporary expression through works from five talented artists: KAKA, Shunsuke Saiki, Ayaka Shirota, Moe Ohara, and Shoji Mochida.

Artists and Their Works

1. KAKA
- Born in 1995, KAKA creates whimsical wood sculptures using traditional techniques like Ichiboku-zukuri from the Heian period. By utilizing materials such as cypress and mineral pigments, her pieces feature fantastical characters and mushrooms, merging pop culture with depth and complex narratives.

2. Shunsuke Saiki
- A 1987 Fukuoka native, Saiki repurposes the overwhelming information we encounter in our daily lives into visually striking canvas paintings. He captures everyday feelings and the chaos of modern life, transforming them into profound pictorial records.

3. Ayaka Shirota
- Born in 2001 in Mie Prefecture, Shirota's artworks delve into the intricacies of human emotion and memory. Through surreal and mysterious aesthetics, her paintings reflect internal struggles and the quest for self-understanding.

4. Moe Ohara
- Since starting her career as a sculptor in 2014, Ohara has focused on themes of regeneration and contemporary issues. Her materials often include Japanese paper and organic sources, emphasizing nature's role in art and life.

5. Shoji Mochida
- Born in 1993 in Saitama, Mochida approaches ceramics with a narrative style rooted in gaming culture. His works juxtapose traditional pottery techniques with contemporary themes, examining how art can serve as a cultural database over millennia.

Exhibition Highlights

This exhibition promises to be a vibrant exploration of artistry through various mediums such as wood carving, painting, and ceramics. By engaging with materials and the act of creation, these artists embody a playful approach to art that resonates with the fundamental mysteries and joys of life.

Event Details

• - Opening Reception: January 31, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
• - Exhibition Duration: January 31, 2026 – February 15, 2026
• - Gallery Hours: Weekdays from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM, and weekends from 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM (Final day closes at 5:00 PM)
• - Tickets: Free admission

We encourage everyone to immerse themselves in this unique exhibition that seeks to cultivate a deeper appreciation for the nuances of art and our everyday experiences. For more information, please visit the YUGEN Gallery's official website.

YUGEN Gallery is committed to showcasing the richness of contemporary Japanese art and making it accessible to a broader audience, both locally and globally. The exhibition will also feature an online platform for art viewing and purchasing, enhancing accessibility for art lovers around the world. The gallery is dedicated not only to promoting established artists but also to discovering new talents in the contemporary art scene.

This is a not-to-miss occasion for anyone passionate about art, culture, and the exploration of themes that connect us all. Join us to celebrate creativity and the enduring legacy of Japanese aesthetics!