#Japan #Tokyo #SOMSOC GALLERY #Saku Shizenkai #PETSHOP

Unveiling the Mystique of 'PETSHOP' by Saku Shizenkai

From September 5 to September 18, 2026, SOMSOC GALLERY in Harajuku will host a captivating exhibition titled 'Electric! Electric! Electric! PETSHOP - Strange and Rare Beasts Store,' curated by the multifaceted artist Saku Shizenkai. This marks the artist's first solo exhibition in over a year, promising an extraordinary insight into her creative universe.

In this imaginative showcase, visitors are invited to explore a fictional pet shop where the artist herself plays the role of shopkeeper, welcoming guests into a beautifully bizarre world populated by fantastical creatures born from her own mythological narratives. The gallery is set to be transformed into a vibrant space filled with art, music, and original merchandise, offering a unique sensory experience that encapsulates Shizenkai’s artistic essence.

The Dynamic Exhibition Elements

Not merely a display but an sensory adventure, the exhibition will feature a range of new soft vinyl creations and limited edition art toys produced specifically for this event, alongside captivating videos that highlight Shizenkai’s work as a musician. Notably, the exhibition also includes collaborations with renowned artists and creators. An interactive installation in partnership with XVISION will adorn the gallery, while an exclusive photo book created in collaboration with cyberpunk photographer Kitsunetsuki will be on sale, showcasing a surreal amalgamation of Shizenkai’s art with contemporary Tokyo landscapes.

Moreover, the exhibition will offer an array of original goods, including talismans, cookies, plush toys, music CDs, and an intricately designed traditional fan created in collaboration with the historic fan shop Matsukane-ya. Visitors will have the unique opportunity to experience her world of art through various mediums — painting, sculpture, music, and animation — and find something that resonates with them.

Opening Party and Events

To kick off the exhibition, an opening party will take place on September 5, from 18:00 to 20:00, where everyone is welcome to join. Saku Shizenkai herself will be present for greetings and to provide insights into the exhibit. This is a free event, and attendees are encouraged to enjoy a drink from the gallery bar. Keep an eye on SOMSOC GALLERY's official social media for further updates and details.

The Concept Behind 'PETSHOP'

The concept of 'Electric! Electric! Electric! PETSHOP' profoundly reflects Shizenkai’s exploration into the unknown. The vibrant creatures that fill the gallery are not mere artistic representations; they symbolize the culmination of her creative journey and experiences, mirroring her emotions, memories, and imaginings. These peculiar beings are neither pets to be owned nor entities to be controlled; they emerge from the realms of Shizenkai's imagination, visiting the real world to forge connections with the audience.

As attendees meander through the exhibit, their initial focus on the strange creatures might shift to a deeper curiosity about Saku Shizenkai’s own truths. What lies behind the curtain of this enigmatic artist? Are these creatures mere figments of her imagination or manifestations of something more profound?

In reflecting on her artistic journey, Shizenkai shares, 'These characters have always been with me. They hold my emotions and are companions in my creative process. They aren’t just created; they co-exist with me. The exhibition is a chance for these creations to engage with others, offering a glimpse into the expansive world within my head.'

A Glimpse into the Artist's Profile

Saku Shizenkai is a boundary-crossing figure in contemporary art, equally recognized as a musician and writer. Her artistic roots extend across various cultures and experiences she absorbed during her youth spent in diverse regions including America, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. These early influences infuse her work, as she pursues a deep exploration of the human psyche. Shizenkai views the human mind as an 'internal universe,' allowing her to express intimate thoughts through varied mediums, creating an intersection between inner emotions and the colossal stimuli of today’s information age.

Location and Additional Information

• - Exhibition Venue: SOMSOC GALLERY, 3-22-11 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
• - Operating Hours: 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM (open year-round)
• - More Details: Visit SOMSOC GALLERY or follow them on Instagram @somsocgallery.

Get ready to journey into the whimsical dimension of Saku Shizenkai and discover the wonders that await!