#Japan #Tokyo #MISO #Decameron #Yuta Geshi

An Introduction to Yuta Geshi's World

A unique exhibition will grace the vibrant streets of Kabukicho in Shinjuku from October 14, 2025. Yuta Geshi's solo show, titled 'What’s Entertainment?', dives deep into the intersection of daily life, art, and culture. Geshi, known for his artisanal miso, has transformed the mundane act of cooking into an art form that speaks volumes about life, resilience, and community.

Geshi's journey as an artist is closely entwined with his day-to-day existence. He crafts his own miso, prepares traditional miso soup each day, and even makes his clothes and furniture. This intense connection to his everyday practice allows him to explore his artistic expressions through writing, art displays, and music creation. By referencing Mierle Laderman Ukeles' concept of 'Maintenance Art', Geshi positions himself as a contemporary visionary who transforms repetitive daily acts into pivotal social critiques.

The Concept of 'Public Life'

In this exhibition, Geshi introduces his innovative concept of 'Public Life'—a parallel to 'open production'. He invites viewers to engage with his diverse practices in the immersive environment of Decameron. The exhibition setting becomes a stage where the intimate and personal is shared publicly, allowing audiences to witness and reflect on the beauty and significance of these routines. Notably, attendees will have opportunities to participate in hands-on miso-making experiences, blending culinary skills with artistic expression.

Resistance through Daily Practices

Within a societal framework that increasingly deprives individuals of time and resources, Geshi strives to reclaim autonomy through meaningful practices such as continuing to create delicious miso soup. His approach offers a fresh alternative to the conventional ideas of 'a simple life' and 'minimalism'. As he vividly articulates, 'I may not instigate a revolution but making miso soup is my way of offering 100% resistance.' The term 'resistance' eloquently encapsulates Geshi's artistic philosophy and practice.

Aesthetic of 'Imitable Quality'

Equally impactful is Geshi’s aesthetic of ‘imitable quality’. It emphasizes not just a relegated standard of simplicity, but rather an alluring and sustainable approach, making it desirable for others to replicate—whether it is through his miso, music, or artwork. This ethos of accessibility resonates throughout all of Geshi’s work, encouraging a culture of creativity and communal participation.

He keenly understands the inherent appeal of care work, which society has historically undervalued. By introducing the glamour associated with this labor—bringing it into focus through his persona as an artist, writer, and musician—Geshi confronts societal norms and elevates overlooked narratives in daily life.

Profile of Yuta Geshi

Yuta Geshi is not only a dedicated artist but also the owner of the breakfast spot 'Daidokoro', known for its rice and miso soup. After leaving his corporate job around 2021, Geshi published 'Rebellious Miso Soup' and began sharing his journey of creating a lifestyle constructed around rice, miso soup, and self-made clothing. Some of his previous exhibits include 'Pencils Won't Work Without Sharpening' (2024, VALLOONSTUDIO SHIBUYA), 'Public Life' (2023, Atelier Salon Koshinkyo), and 'One Day, a Friend Asked Me About the Earth' (2022, SALON DU DAHU).

Event Highlights

During the exhibition, a variety of activities are scheduled:

• - 'For the Kitchen': A collaborative performance on October 13, where Geshi prepares miso soup, accompanied by live music by Shinpei Sugino.
• - 'Miso Making Workshops': Several scheduled sessions allowing participants to create their own miso, running from October 17, 24, 31, and November 7.
• - 'Living Parties featuring Miso Making': Special large-scale events from November 1-3, coinciding with 'BENTEN 2 Art Night Kabukicho', combining live art, miso-making, and a shared celebration of creativity.

About Decameron

Opened in 2020, Decameron is an art space located in the heart of Kabukicho. Named after Boccaccio's tales of the plague, this venue promotes contemporary experimental art. The two-story layout includes a gallery space on the second floor and a bar on the first, fostering interactions between artists and audiences. Decameron continues to evolve, hosting rich artistic experiences that question and inspire.

Exhibition Details

• - Title: 'What’s Entertainment?'
• - Dates: October 14, 2025 – November 9, 2025
• - Location: Decameron, Kabukicho, Shinjuku, Tokyo
• - Hours: 20:00 – 27:00 (Closed on Mondays, open on November 3)

Join Yuta Geshi at Decameron for an exploration of how the everyday can transcend into the extraordinary, all through the lens of his captivating artistic practice.