#Japan #Tokyo #ADF Art Project #GARDE Gallery #Yukie Nagayuki

Yukie Nagayuki's Solo Exhibition: 'Being Here, Being There'

The ADF (Aoyama Design Forum) proudly presents the 48th iteration of its ongoing project, the ADF Art Gallery Project. This time, we spotlight the talents of artist Yukie Nagayuki, renowned for her exploration of the dualities of everyday life. Her exhibition titled 'Being Here, Being There' will be held at the GARDE Gallery in Omotesando from September 18 to October 7, 2026. Everyone is welcome to join the opening reception on September 18 from 6 PM to 8 PM.

Yukie Nagayuki's artistic journey has evolved significantly, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, where she has come to realize that the mundane aspects of life are not everlasting but are in a constant state of flux. In a world where nothing is truly certain, she believes that our perceptions can be transformed through our mindset.

At the core of Nagayuki's work lies the concept of the inherent duality present in all events. She delves into the darker aspects of experiences – the 'cruelty' behind 'kindness', the 'sorrow' lurking beneath 'joy', and the 'coldness' hidden within 'warmth'. Embracing these complexities is, for her, a fundamental aspect of living.

Her artistic repertoire predominantly draws inspiration from animals and the everyday changes around us. Though she has traditionally employed woodblock printing techniques, she stands apart by applying colors directly onto the carved wood rather than on paper, known as 'mokusaïga'. Moreover, her mastery extends to creating sculptures in ceramics, oil paintings, and experimenting with diverse materials including fabric and leather. Her pursuit of expression navigates seamlessly between two-dimensional and three-dimensional realms.

The exhibition promises not only to showcase polished, completed works but also to present fragments of the creative process that have led to the genesis of these pieces. This interplay of past and present forms a rich tapestry of continuity that Nagayuki cherishes amidst the world's ever-changing landscape.

Meet Yukie Nagayuki

Originating from Tokyo, Yukie Nagayuki graduated in 2004 from the Tama Art University’s Department of Fine Arts (Oil Painting). Over the years, she has been recognized with numerous awards, including the 27th Okamoto Taro Contemporary Art Prize Special Award in 2024, and she has participated in key art exhibitions, such as the Rokko Meets Art 2025 in Kobe and various other notable showcases in Tokyo.

As the exhibition approaches, art lovers and the general public alike are invited to experience Nagayuki’s compelling narrative woven through her artwork, highlighting the delicate balance between existence and presence.

Exhibition Details:

• - Dates: September 18 – October 7, 2026
• - Opening Reception: September 18, 6 PM – 8 PM
• - Visiting Hours: 11 AM – 6 PM (until 5 PM on the last day)
• - Venue: GARDE Gallery, 4th Floor, NBF ALLIANCE Building, 5-2-1 Minami-Aoyama, Minato City, Tokyo
• - Closed on: Sundays and public holidays

Please note: Do not inquire about the exhibition location at the first-floor stores.

For more information, visit Yukie Nagayuki's website.