Takahashi Hosts Ayumu Matsuoka Exhibition in Tokyo and Yokohama

Ayumu Matsuoka Exhibition - When Feelings Are Conveyed

The Takashimaya department store is thrilled to announce the upcoming exhibition titled "Ayumu Matsuoka - When Feelings Are Conveyed" held in Tokyo and Yokohama. This exhibition will provide an in-depth look at the artist's enchanting creations, showcasing around 30 pieces including folding screens and smaller works.

Exhibition Details

Tokyo Exhibition:
Dates: October 8, 2025 (Wed) - October 13, 2025 (Mon, National Holiday)
Location: Nihonbashi Takashimaya S.C. Main Building, 6th Floor, Art Gallery
Gallery Talk: October 11, 2025 (Sat) at 3 PM

Yokohama Exhibition:
Dates: October 29, 2025 (Wed) - November 3, 2025 (Mon, National Holiday)
Location: Yokohama Takashimaya, 7th Floor, Art Gallery
Gallery Talk: November 1, 2025 (Sat) at 3 PM

Ayumu Matsuoka, born in 1978 in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture, graduated from the Tokyo University of the Arts with a specialization in Japanese painting in 2005. He completed his doctoral studies in the same field in 2010. Throughout his career, he has participated in various exhibitions, receiving numerous awards and establishing himself as a leading figure in contemporary Japanese painting.

In his early years as an artist, Matsuoka focused on realistic portraits and mystical landscapes. However, his journey took a transformative turn when he began to paint amphibians, particularly the giant salamander, which inspired him to depict animals and marine life nestled among soothing colors. His subjects exude charm and presence, conveying his thoughts and feelings with eloquence through the tranquil compositions.

In recent works, Matsuoka has experimented with modern settings, portraying cocktail glasses that cleverly divide the canvas. Using mineral pigments and gold leaf, he captures the vibrant colors and aromas of alcoholic beverages gracefully. This exhibition represents the culmination of his artistic evolution, inviting viewers to engage with his compelling narrative.

Notable Works Featured in the Exhibition

- "印旛沼月下圖屏風" (Inbanuma Gekka Folding Screen) 139.5 x 307.2 cm, Paper and Color (2024-2025)
- "星游図屏風" (Hoshiyu Folding Screen) 182 x 228 cm, Paper and Color
- "春降る夢" (Spring Falling Dreams) 41.0 x 100 cm, Paper and Color (2025)
- "心" (Heart) 53.0 x 45.5 cm / 10号F (2025)

Matsuoka's career milestones reflect his dedication to the art form. He received the Salon de Printemps Award and the Taitō City Mayor’s Prize for his graduation work. Subsequent accolades include winning the 12th Matsubak Museum Flower and Bird Painting Exhibition Grand Prize in 2006 and participation in prestigious exhibitions such as the 62nd Haru No In Exhibit. His awards also include the Encouragement Prize at the 109th Reiko Institute Exhibition in 2024.

The Takashimaya department store invites all art enthusiasts and the public to witness Ayumu Matsuoka's distinctive artistry, which resonates with the beauty of nature and embodies the depths of human emotion. To learn more about the event and Matsuoka's body of work, feel free to contact the following: