#Japan #Tokyo #Kunihiko Nohara #SHABON #gallery UG

Breathtaking Exhibition 'SHABON'

From September 9 to 27, 2025, gallery UG Tennoz in Tokyo will host the captivating solo exhibition "SHABON" featuring the works of artist Kunihiko Nohara. Born in Hokkaido in 1982, Nohara graduated from the Graduate School of Artistic Studies in Hiroshima, specializing in sculpture. Since 2010, he has been a dedicated artist at gallery UG, consistently exploring the theme of "pleasant moments" through his art.

This upcoming exhibition primarily focuses on his new series titled "SHABON," where he ingeniously merges two seemingly unrelated motifs: bubbles and bonsai. This fusion evokes a unique sensory experience that invites viewers into Nohara's singular world, prompting a reflection on the delicate balance of life and nature.

Nohara's wood sculptures, carved from a single piece of wood, strikingly feature dynamic and rough textures, retaining the cracks formed during the creation process. Yet, they simultaneously possess soft silhouettes reminiscent of bubbles or round cheeks, creating an intriguing visual harmony. Within these forms lies a reflection of personal memories shared with his child, transforming intimate experiences into universal “pleasant moments” that resonate with audiences.

A recurring motif throughout his works is the depiction of figures wearing underwater goggles, symbolizing anonymity. This theme encourages viewers to project their own memories and emotions onto the figure, sparking a deeper exploration of one's inner world. This notion of anonymity resonates with contemporary values of diversity and inclusivity, offering fresh perspectives on human experiences in today's society.

Nohara's previous notable exhibitions include:

• - "Wonderful Time" at Ueno Royal Museum in 2017
• - "Let's Party at the Bookstore Tonight" at GINZA ARTRIUM in 2018
• - "Living History" at Nijo Castle in 2021
• - "Floating Moment" at The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo in 2023
• - "The Flavor of Art" at Hong Kong TOWN CLUB in 2024
• - "Art Miami" in Miami, showcasing his works internationally and domestically with vigor.

"SHABON" embodies an extension of his artistic journey, providing new insights through his distinct motifs and wood carving expressions. The works featured will include detailed, dynamic pieces such as:

• - Design Drawing - SHABON / H140×W79×D80cm / Japanese Zelkova / 2025
• - Chidori Wave (Gray Plum Color) Edition 1824.5×27×27 cm FRP 2025
• - Strawberry Hood Series Edition 1813.5×14.5×14.8 cm FRP 2025

Exhibition Details:

• - Exhibition Name: SHABON
• - Artist: Kunihiko Nohara
• - Exhibition Period: September 9 (Tuesday) - 27 (Saturday), 2025
• - Opening hours: 11:30 AM - 6:30 PM
• - Closed: Sundays and Mondays (open on September 14 and 15)
• - Venue: gallery UG Tennoz (1-32-8 Higashi Shinagawa, Terrada Art Complex 2-2F, Shinagawa, Tokyo)

For inquiries, please contact gallery UG Tennoz:

• - Email: [email protected]
• - Tel: 03-6260-0886

Don't miss this opportunity to experience Nohara's breathtaking creations that blend personal and universal themes in art.