#Japan #Tokyo #Tokyo art #Yuta Okuda #Bouquet Series

Yuta Okuda's Exhibition "With Gratitude"

The Chain Museum, based in Shibuya, Tokyo, is currently hosting a solo exhibition by artist Yuta Okuda titled "With Gratitude" at Gallery & Bakery Tokyo 8 minutes. This exhibition runs from April 11 to May 12, 2026, and marks the 17th exhibition at the venue, which combines an art gallery with a bakery and café.

Yuta Okuda, born in 1987 in Aichi Prefecture, is a talented artist who initially studied fashion design in both Japan and the UK. After establishing a career as a fashion designer, he transitioned into the art world in 2016. Since then, he has actively participated in several solo and group exhibitions both domestically and internationally, generating a body of work that showcases his artistic evolution. Recently, Okuda has focused on exploring the theme of floral representations through a series that embraces the concept of "chance"—capturing the dynamic flow and layering of paint alongside intricate line work. This juxtaposition is what makes Okuda's art particularly intriguing.

The exhibition takes place at the TODA BUILDING, which has a special connection to Okuda's art—a large print of his work was displayed on construction barriers during the building's development phase, offering the public an early glimpse into his artistic style.

In "With Gratitude," viewers can expect to see a collection of paintings centered around bouquets, designed to evoke the joy and vibrancy of spring. The artist's aim is to create a visually stunning atmosphere within the exhibition space, filled with bright and fresh arrangements that invite contemplation and appreciation. This showcase promises to be a wonderful occasion for audiences to experience Okuda's unique aesthetic and emotional resonance.

Exhibition Statement

The exhibition, titled "With Gratitude," stems from the artist's reflections during the heightened uncertainty and social tension of the global pandemic. As daily life was disrupted and the connections assumed to be stable began to waver, Okuda became increasingly aware of his own feelings and the shifts in his actions. Amid such anxiety, he discovered the significance of focusing on what he was already capable of achieving. He believes that expressing gratitude for these existing capacities fostered a more positive mindset, which consequently influenced his behavior and outcomes. This series aims to visualize these internal processes of psychological change.

Confronted with the question of what to create as an artist during this tumultuous period, Okuda chose not to depict social issues directly but rather to focus on the essence of his being supported by the very notion of awareness. He envisions the floral motifs in his work as symbols—representing messages of gratitude and affections that transcend explicit communication. The vibrant blossoms aim to provide viewers with a sense of quiet reassurance and affirmative sensations.

Through this series, Okuda seeks not to alter the circumstances themselves but to highlight the importance of perceiving these conditions differently. The change in one's consciousness can significantly impact individual actions and perspectives on the future. He interprets "With Gratitude" as an expression of resilience that quietly opens up a dialogue to others living in today’s challenging environment.

The artist expresses profound gratitude for the opportunity to present his creations in this remarkable venue and to share the space with wonderful artists who have interconnected experiences. He notes the special aspect of showcasing in the TODA BUILDING, where his art was previously displayed, fortifying the bond between his journey and the audience.

In closing, he hopes visitors leave the exhibition space with a slightly brighter heart, moving forward with newfound clarity.

Exhibition Information

• - Title: Yuta Okuda Solo Exhibition "With Gratitude"
• - Dates: April 11, 2026 – May 12, 2026
• - Venue: Gallery & Bakery Tokyo 8 minutes
• - Address: 1F TODA BUILDING, 1-7-1 Kyobashi, Chuo, Tokyo 104-0031
• - Hours: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Open daily during the exhibition)
• - Admission: Free
• - Access: 3-minute walk from Kyobashi Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line), 5-minute walk from Nihonbashi Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line), and 8-minute walk from Tokyo Station (Yaesu Central Exit).

For further details, visit the exhibition page.