Paying Tribute to Dutch Artist ROSTO Through Unique Film Showcase in Shibuya

A Tribute to the Pioneering Dutch Artist ROSTO

In a heartfelt homage to the late Dutch artist and filmmaker ROSTO, who passed away suddenly at the age of 50 in 2019, a special film showcase titled 'Existential Proof' will commence at the Shibuya Image Forum on August 16. This remarkable event is dedicated to celebrating ROSTO's extraordinary contributions to the world of animation and multimedia art.

The showcase will feature ROSTO's final work, 'Thee Wreckers Tetralogy', alongside the short documentary 'Everything Seems to Change, but Nothing Has Changed' and the acclaimed puppet musical animation 'The Monster of Nix.' This selection allows attendees to delve into ROSTO's multifaceted creativity while reflecting on the themes and experiences woven throughout his career.

A Glimpse into ROSTO's Unique Vision

ROSTO's artistic journey was characterized by a fearless exploration of the intersection between visuals, music, and storytelling. The 'Thee Wreckers Tetralogy', re-edited from a series of short films created over a span of 15 years, stands as a testament to ROSTO's enduring legacy. Initially conceptualized as “music videos” for a non-existent band, this quartet of films intertwines dark and surreal visuals reflective of ROSTO’s unique artistic voice.

The 'Everything Seems to Change, but Nothing Has Changed' documentary provides insight into the life and mind of ROSTO, presenting interviews that shed light on his creative process, character, and the influences that shaped his work. Conversely, 'The Monster of Nix', which amalgamates puppet animation and CG techniques, narrates a tale of adventure and introspection as the protagonist, Willy, confronts a devouring monster that consumes everything in its path. Not only is this work a wonderful display of ROSTO's artistic prowess, featuring collaborations with renowned artists such as Terry Gilliam and Tom Waits, but it is also imbued with poignant themes of self-discovery and resilience.

The Director's Voice: Ken Suenaga

Ken Suenaga, the acclaimed filmmaker behind this tribute and a long-time admirer of ROSTO’s work, reflects on the significance of continuing a dialogue with an artist whose voice still resonates profoundly through their creations. He emphasizes that while ROSTO may not be physically among us, his essence remains near, vibrating through the fabric of our existence.

In Ken’s words, “Are we to believe that we have lost our chance to converse with ROSTO? The answer is no. The language of his visuals and sounds transcends words.” These reflections inspire audiences to not only appreciate ROSTO’s artistry but also to immerse themselves in the emotional landscapes he crafted.

A Collectible Honoring ROSTO

To complement the film showcase, a limited edition book titled 'Mind My Gap' will be released, featuring 210 pages of graphic novel art and two CDs filled with ROSTO’s work. This exquisite collection encapsulates the breadth of ROSTO’s creativity and will be available for purchase at the venue as well as on the dedicated website.

Details of the Showcase

The ROSTO tribute showcase will open at the Tokyo Image Forum on August 16. The ticket prices are set at 1,900 yen for general admission, with discounted rates for students and seniors. This event provides a rare opportunity for audiences to engage with ROSTO's vision and legacy through immersive storytelling.

As the cinematic world pauses to reflect on ROSTO's vibrant and profound contributions, attendees of the 'Existential Proof' showcase are invited to join in this celebration of creativity, memory, and inspiration. Experience the haunting and imaginative universe that ROSTO has left behind.

Conclusion

This tribute serves not only to remember a creative genius but also to inspire a new generation to explore the boundless realms of artistic expression. ROSTO’s unique voice in animation and multimedia remains an indelible part of the contemporary artistic landscape, and this showcase serves as a loving reminder of the power of imagination and storytelling.

Join us at the Image Forum to celebrate ROSTO’s incredible legacy starting August 16, as we honor his life, his creativity, and the profound impact he has made on the world of art.