#Japan #Tokyo #Tokyo Exhibition #Nelson Hor #LGBTQ Art

Nelson Hor's Solo Exhibition: "鏡中花、水中月 - A Mere Reflection of Flower and Moon"

From December 6 to December 27, 2025, √K Contemporary in Shinjuku, Tokyo, will showcase an individual exhibition titled "鏡中花、水中月 - A Mere Reflection of Flower and Moon," created by Malaysian artist Nelson Hor. This exhibition aims to delve into deep-rooted societal issues such as LGBTQ rights and mental health through the artist's unique perspective.

Nelson Hor, who studied traditional Japanese painting at Tama Art University, skillfully navigates various materials—including mineral pigments, ceramics, photography, and installations—to merge themes of beauty and identity. His reflections on growing up in a predominantly Islamic Malaysia as a gay man emphasize the role of beauty as a substitute for religious identity:

"For a gay person like me, raised in a strongly Islamic culture, beauty became a surrogate for religion."

Hor's personal insight opens a discussion about how beauty can serve as a psychological refuge for LGBTQ individuals facing oppression within rigid cultural frameworks.

The exhibition will feature new paintings, sculptures, and installations by Hor, alongside furniture pieces designed by prominent post-war Japanese creators such as Isamu Noguchi, Tadao Ando, and Sori Yanagi. The juxtaposition of these artworks and simple yet functional furniture aims to transform the gallery into a “queer sanctuary,” where beauty transcends luxury and becomes essential for mental survival. This setting reflects the harsh realities faced by modern individuals, resonating with audiences regardless of their gender or background.

During the exhibition, visitors can engage in gallery talks and special performances. One notable event is a discussion with Junya Utsumi, a curator from the Ishibashi Foundation, and a captivating Drag Queen performance by Nixie Humidity and Andromeda, adding vibrancy and interactivity to the experience.

Exhibition Overview

• - Title: Nelson Hor - “A Mere Reflection of Flower and Moon”
• - Dates: December 6 - December 27, 2025
• - Opening Reception: December 5, 2025, at 5 PM
• - Location: √K Contemporary, Minamimachi 6, Shinjuku, Tokyo
• - Website: √K Contemporary
• - Hours: 1 PM - 7 PM, closed on Sundays and Mondays.

In his artist statement, Hor references the Chinese idiom “鏡花水月” (mirror flowers, water moons), which symbolizes the ephemeral nature of beauty, reflecting on how he interprets queer beauty as not only an expression of desire but also a means of exorcising oppression. He emphasizes this idea through the selection of furniture that champions simplicity and functionality, aligning with his vision of creating a sacred space for queer memory and ritual.

Hor aims to create an atmosphere where viewers can pause and reflect, fostering a crucial reconsideration of what constitutes beauty—not as a luxury but as a necessity for those resiliently navigating a challenging reality.

The exhibition not only embodies Hor's gentle perspective on art but also aligns with the broader conversation on the essentiality of beauty in contemporary society. The narratives woven through his work promise to resonate deeply with all who session the gallery.

Events

1. Gallery Talk - Nelson Hor with Junya Utsumi
- Date: December 6, 2025, at 6 PM
2. Drag Queen Performance by Nixie Humidity and Andromeda
- Date: December 13, 2025, at 4 PM

Join us for this transformative exhibition that challenges conventions and redefines the essence of beauty in the modern world!