TOSHIKI HAYASAKA's Art Exhibition: A Reflection on 15 Years Since the Great East Japan Earthquake

TOSHIKI HAYASAKA's Upcoming Exhibition: "The Shape of Words"

TOSHIKI HAYASAKA, a renowned artist known for his soulful artworks that explore the inner workings of the human mind, is set to host a solo exhibition titled "The Shape of Words" from March 20 to March 23, 2026, at LAIDOUT shibuya in Tokyo. This exhibition will notably introduce his latest series, "Setsuna."

A Milestone Year

2026 marks the 15th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake that struck on March 11, 2011. HAYASAKA was profoundly affected by this tragedy, commencing his journey as an artist soon after the calamity, while aiding in rescue operations in the city of Sendai. Witnessing the thin line between life and death left an indelible mark on his artistic vision, compelling him to delve deeper into themes of existence, hope, and resilience in his works.

Over the years, his art has predominantly focused on the "inner self," portraying emotions such as determination, prayer, and the tremors that resonate within our hearts. His last work, "Dawn," reflects on his continuous confrontation with the memories of the earthquake.

Transitioning to the New Series: "Setsuna"

"Setsuna" represents a natural progression from his previous body of work, extending themes into a new realm where inner emotions surge outward, capturing the fleeting moments of enlightenment and awakening. HAYASAKA describes this new phase as an intention to project feelings outward, emphasizing the creation of art that transcends personal expression.

One of the exhibition's centerpiece pieces, "Meishin," is a striking 1.2-meter diameter masterpiece that symbolizes the birth of light within the heart. This work, created in collaboration with Kyoto's Makino Lacquer Craft, exemplifies a multi-layered representation of light using lacquer and gold, marking a significant milestone in HAYASAKA's artistic journey.

During the exhibition, a dialogue event featuring cultural researcher Hiroki Yamamoto will be held, who notes, "TOSHIKI HAYASAKA’s work harmonizes different materials, challenging the conventional categories of modern art and proposing new expressions. His approach, defining creation as 'intervention in the world,' pushes boundaries and questions the essence of expression."

Exhibition Details

- Exhibition Title: TOSHIKI HAYASAKA Exhibition: "The Shape of Words"
- Dates: March 20 (Holiday) - March 23, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Artist Talk: On March 20, at 6 PM, a reception will feature a discussion with TOSHIKI HAYASAKA and cultural researcher Hiroki Yamamoto.
- Venue: LAIDOUT shibuya, Shibuya, Tokyo (1-15-12 Shibuya)
- Admission: Free
- Organizer: TODOROKI Corporation

Artist Profile: TOSHIKI HAYASAKA

Born in May 1990 in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, TOSHIKI HAYASAKA prioritizes a philosophy of "living in the present" in both life and artistic endeavors. His experiences during the rescue missions following the earthquake deeply influenced his perspective as an artist, highlighting the power of nature, the fragility of life, and the strength found in the heartbeat of existence.

Among other themes, his work captures the weight of life, prayer, and the hope embedded in despair. The memories of his rescue work in Arahama remain pivotal, shaping his artistic expression over the years. His artwork seeks to embody moments of light similar to those he witnessed during dawn on that fateful day, blending Japan's unique aesthetics with philosophical concepts like "wabi-sabi" and "yugen." More information can be found on his official website and Instagram.