Exploring The Vibrant World of Kotaro Machiyama's Art Exhibition 'Yamato Spirits'

Exhibition Overview

The art exhibition titled 'Yamato Spirits' showcases the unique vision of painter Kotaro Machiyama, running from September 3rd to September 18th at the Daikanyama Tsutaya Bookstore. Known for depicting a flat world with vibrant colors, Machiyama's work simplifies landscapes into visual experiences stripped of depth, resembling the perspectives of infants. This exhibition is a must-see for those venturing into art that resonates with pure emotion, regardless of cultural background.

Location: The SOMSOC GALLERY, operated by Ken Iwao, is set in one of Tokyo's creative hotspots, making it an ideal venue for such an intriguing presentation.

Artistic Vision

Machiyama's artworks reflect an exploration of Japanese culture through a flat and abstract lens, influenced by vibrant natural scenes such as the Tateyama mountain range and its surrounding beauty. Featured in this exhibition are pieces like 'Everlasting' and 'Toward Renewal', which aim to evoke a sense of 'Yamato Damashii', or the Japanese spirit. This essence of Japan is what Machiyama hopes to express through color and form.

In addition to paintings, the exhibit also introduces limited-edition Japanese sake from Kizakari Brewery as a unique collaboration. The sake encapsulates the essence of the artwork through its design, appealing to both collectors of fine art and fine drinking.

Featured Artworks

Some highlighted pieces include:

- Everlasting / ずっと
- Toward Renewal / つぎへ
- Commencement / はじまり
- Little by little / すこしづつ

These captivating works challenge perceptions by engaging viewers in a journey of interpretation, allowing them to tap into their own memories and feelings through the simplicity of color and shape.

Curatorial Insight

The exhibition is curated by Sogen Miyazaki, who emphasizes the psychological connection that Machiyama's works create with their audience. Each piece is meticulously crafted to embody cultural significance while remaining universally relatable. As Miyazaki describes, "The aim is to depict the world through Machiyama's lens, blending personal experiences with collective memory and engaging viewers in a meaningful dialogue."

Unique Collaborations

The exhibition's collaboration with Kizakari Brewery introduces a fascinating aspect to the event, wherein traditional Japanese sake is presented in specially designed bottles and packaging reflecting the art displayed. Alongside these, handcrafted yukata fabrics dyed by artist Yuuuma Ishii further enhance the fusion of culture and creativity that embodies the spirit of this exhibition.

About the Artists

Kotaro Machiyama, born in Chiba in 1980, transitioned from being a web designer to a successful painter after traveling across Southeast Asia. His works resonate with a child-like simplicity that evokes strong emotional connections. He continues to garner international attention, especially in Europe and the USA, where his art pieces are celebrated.

Yuuuma Ishii, a textile artist skilled in the traditional technique of Yuzen dyeing, pertains to a philosophy of observing and interpreting the world around him, making his works the perfect complement to Machiyama's vision.

Venue Information

Daikanyama Tsutaya Bookstore
Address: 17-5 Sarugakucho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Operating Hours: 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM (Check website for event adjustments)
Website: Daikanyama Tsutaya

This exhibition offers a compelling exploration into the rich tapestry of Japanese artistry and culture, inviting visitors to engage with a world that is at once personal and universally accessible.