#Japan #Tokyo #Art Exhibition #Shimo Hiroyasu #Parallel Japan

Discovering 'PARALLEL NIPPON'

A remarkable exhibition titled 'PARALLEL NIPPON' by media artist Shimo Hiroyasu is set to begin on August 27, 2025, in Tokyo’s Ebisu district. This event invites art enthusiasts to delve into a fascinating alternate reality where the essence of Japan's Showa era continues to thrive. Hiroyasu has garnered attention for his ability to blend traditional art styles with contemporary elements, creating an extraordinary synthesis that enriches the artistic landscape.

The Artistic Vision

Hiroyasu utilizes generative AI to innovate and expand upon existing artistic practices. His use of traditional aesthetics, such as those found in Japanese and Buddhist paintings, is beautifully interwoven throughout his works, transforming them into pieces that resonate with a deep sense of cultural identity and modernity. At 'PARALLEL NIPPON', he will explore hypothetical shifts in Japan's historical timeline, posing intriguing questions about identity and existence through his art.

Expect a multifaceted experience that includes paintings, video art, soundscapes, and music as part of a cohesive narrative that will engage viewers in a paradigm shift within the realm of art. As attendees navigate through the exhibition, they will encounter over 300 artworks, including some of Hiroyasu's earlier installations like the famed 'Benten-sama', a virtual piece that has captivated audiences online with millions of views across social platforms.

Exhibition Details

• - Dates: August 27 (Wed) - September 7 (Sun) 2025
• - Time: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
• - Venue: Maison Franco-Japonaise Gallery, 3 Chome-9-25 Ebisu, Shibuya, Tokyo
• - Admission: 500 yen for a passport ticket (free for preschoolers)
• - Official Website: Parallel Nippon

During the exhibition, visitors will have the opportunity to attend lectures presented by Hiroyasu himself, gaining insights into the creative processes behind the artworks and discussing the social and cultural evolution of this parallel Japan. Unique features such as daily presentations, and an assortment of themed postcards given to the first 200 attendees, are designed to enhance the experience.

A Journey into Alternate Reality

The concept behind 'PARALLEL NIPPON' emerged from a fictional scenario developed by Hiroyasu's imaginary publishing house, Benten-sha. The narrative unfolds a world diverged in 1960, where the Showa period continues to flourish. This exhibition does not just present art; it transports visitors to an alternate Japan, filled with nostalgia yet refreshingly new. With elements reminiscent of Japanese history, the display promises to engage and inspire, inviting contemplation on personal and collective identities within both real and imagined frameworks.

Engaging with the Work

For those who are eager to learn more about Hiroyasu's vision and the themes of his work, he will be available throughout the exhibition period for discussions and lectures. These sessions will delve into the complexities of his artistic narrative—an exploration of how technologies like generative AI intersect with traditional Japanese aesthetics. Visitors will find themselves immersed in a thought-provoking atmosphere, encouraging dialogue about the nature of reality, art, and the myriad ways culture is expressed.

Stay Updated

To keep up with the latest insights and ideas as they unfold, follow Shimo Hiroyasu on Instagram and TikTok, where teasers of upcoming creations and installation updates are shared regularly. Just as the exhibition aims to invigorate traditional notions of art, the accompanying online engagement extends the conversation beyond the gallery walls, connecting real-time cultural dialogues both in Japan and abroad.

Join us for 'PARALLEL NIPPON' and immerse yourself in a uniquely crafted artistic experience that challenges the boundaries of time, culture, and creativity. This is not just an exhibition; it is a journey into a reimagined Japan that awaits to be discovered.

Contact Information

For further inquiries, media coverage on the opening, or participation in the reception event, please reach out to the PARALLEL NIPPON project coordinators at [email protected].