Mai Komiya's Solo Exhibition: Deep into the Skin at GALLERY ROOM・A in Asakusa

An Insight into Mai Komiya's Upcoming Solo Exhibition

From September 12 to October 11, 2026, GALLERY ROOM・A in Asakusa will host a captivating solo exhibition titled 'Deep into the Skin' by artist Mai Komiya. This event marks the inaugural showcase of ArtSticker's new series, KIKOU — Gallery in Transit, in collaboration with GALLERY SOAP, a contemporary art space based in Kitakyushu. The exhibition promises an immersive experience highlighting the intersection of art, materiality, and human connection.

Mai Komiya, born in 1997 in Yamaguchi Prefecture, is known for her innovative approach in utilizing everyday materials such as beads, mirrors, PVC, plastic, and even cigarette butts to create both two-dimensional and three-dimensional artworks. Recently, her 'Sleep in the Mirror' series—characterized by the use of reflective surfaces—has gained attention for exploring the essence of painting itself, while also pushing the boundaries of material texture and substance.

At this exhibition, Komiya will present her latest works from the 'Deep into the Skin' collection, where she employs resin and oil paints to create pieces that evoke internal images reminiscent of blood vessels, fat, and muscle tissue. With multiple layers of resin, her creations oscillate between the realms of flatness and objecthood, compelling viewers to question the divides between self and other. In these works, Komiya contemplates the insatiable desire to understand others, juxtaposed with the inevitable barriers that prevent complete connection—highlighting our simultaneous longing to unite while recognizing the impermeable nature of personal boundaries.

As Mai Komiya puts it: "Even while yearning to connect, we remain inherently apart." This ongoing struggle between the desire for closeness and the existence of barriers—whether they be skin, culture, nationality, or other defining traits—will be expressed through the fascinating overlapping of material and imagery in her works. Viewers are encouraged to witness firsthand this exploration of emotional complexity and the challenges of communication that many contemporary youth grapple with today.

Exhibition Overview

The 'Deep into the Skin' exhibition at GALLERY ROOM・A is an essential part of the KIKOU — Gallery in Transit initiative, which celebrates local galleries and spaces, bridging regional practices and curatorial insights to foster new dialogues and relationships among artists and audiences. The title 'KIKOU' signifies the act of docking—a metaphor for fostering transient connections between different voices and expressions in the contemporary art scene, allowing for new experiences and exchanges.

In recent years, the GALLERY SOAP has established itself as a vibrant platform for contemporary art, dedicated to showcasing a diverse array of artistic expression from both local and international artists. Through collaborations with various creative minds, they have actively engaged in presenting experimental programs, enriching the artistic landscape in their community.

Komiya's new series, 'Deep into the Skin', serves not only as a visual feast but also delves into topics that resonate deeply with the human experience—especially themes of youth, communication challenges, and the quest for intimacy in an increasingly disconnected world. The interplay of materials in her work seeks to evoke these sentiments, allowing viewers to reflect on their own barriers and desires in interpersonal relationships.

This exhibition is a call to explore the complexities of our existence, urging us to confront our individual states while also seeking to bridge the gaps that separate us from one another. It invites us to embark on a journey into the layers of our own humanity.

Upcoming Engagements

In addition to this exhibition, Mai Komiya is set to participate in various group showcases and events in the coming years, including her own exhibitions planned in locations like Café Muse and GALLERY SOAP in Kitakyushu. Her career is rapidly evolving, driven by a passion for overcoming the barriers in communication through her artistry.

Visitor Information

The 'Deep into the Skin' exhibition will be free to view from 08:00 AM to 11:00 PM, with no scheduled closure during the exhibition period. GALLERY ROOM・A is located within KAIKA Tokyo by THE SHARE HOTELS, situated just a short walk from Asakusa Station, ensuring easy access for art lovers and the curious public alike.

For those wishing to attain deeper insight into Mai Komiya's work and to view this groundbreaking exhibition, be sure to mark your calendars and engage with the remarkable expressions that await.

For more details on visiting and upcoming events, you may check their official website or the ArtSticker platform.