#Japan #Tokyo #Ginza Gallery #Origin of Beauty #Yokohama Exhibition

The 2026 Origin of Beauty Exhibition: Celebrating Artistic Talent

The 2026 Origin of Beauty Exhibition, organized by the Ginza Gallery, is back after a three-year hiatus, celebrating a record-breaking participation of 340 applicants and a total of 469 works submitted. This year, 50 pieces were selected for the exhibition, and 14 artists were honored with awards, showcasing a diverse range of artistic expression across different generations and styles.

A Move to Yokohama

For the first time in its history, the exhibition will extend its reach beyond Ginza to present an exhibition of selected works at the Minato Mirai Gallery in Yokohama. This initiative aims to connect the selected artists with a broader audience. The exhibitions will occur from August 25 to 31 in Yokohama and from September 2 to 12 in Ginza, allowing attendees to experience the creativity of both winning and selected artists.

Wide Participation Across Generations

The Origin of Beauty Exhibition focuses on discovering and nurturing artistic talent, helping to launch careers for emerging artists. This year’s participating artists range from their 20s to their 80s, demonstrating a rich tapestry of creativity. The final judging panel included notable guest judges Koji Osugi, an independent curator, and Tohni, an art storyteller, who prioritized not only the technical skill and expression of the works but also the potential future of the artists.

Emphasizing Physical Presence

Osugi commented on the significance of experiencing the artworks in person, stating, “The allure and aura of the originals can only be appreciated by viewing them live. The attention to detail and high level of finish showcase true professionalism.” Tohni emphasized the importance of continuity in an artist’s work, likening it to wanting to see a second performance from a comedian: “I want to know if they can deliver more beyond just a one-off expression.” This perspective on the artists' ongoing development proved vital in the judging process.

Exhibition Details

First Phase: Selected Works Exhibition in Yokohama

• - Dates: August 25 (Tue) - August 31 (Mon) 2026
• - Location: Minato Mirai Gallery, 2-3-5 Minato Mirai, Nishi-ku, Yokohama
• - Admission: Free

Award-Winning Works

• - Grand Prize: Katsushi Kobe, "The Moment of White Blossoms"
• - 準 Grand Prize: Natsumi Yamazaki, "Layering Light"
• - Special Prize: Ukyo Furukawa, "Silva Nocturna"
• - Encouragement Prize: Momo Saito, "Stone Texture 3"
• - Encouragement Prize: Fujii, "Wind Hole"
• - Encouragement Prize: Dan Ri, "Black Feather Garden"
• - Encouragement Prize: Liu Yi, "Screaming Flower"
• - Judge's Prize (Osugi Prize): Miho Kodan, "Moon Over Dark Seas"
• - Judge's Prize (Tohni Prize): Mizuki Hongo, "White Hat"
• - Merit Prize: Ayaka Kawamoto, "Dream of Roses"
• - Merit Prize: Jun Tomita, "The Back of the Eyes"
• - Merit Prize: Riuichi Hayashi, "Mythology"
• - Merit Prize: HARUNA SHIKATA, "Overwrite73"
• - Merit Prize: Nana Kadota, "Returning Home"

Second Phase: Award-Winning Works Exhibition in Ginza

• - Dates: September 2 (Wed) - September 12 (Sat) 2026
• - Location: Ginza Gallery, 8-4-2 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
• - Admission: Free

About the Ginza Gallery

The Ginza Gallery has aimed to support emerging artists since its founding in 2013 by hosting exhibitions and competitions that encourage innovation and artistic freedom. Its mission is to create meaningful encounters between artists, their works, and new audiences.

For Inquiries

For media inquiries, please contact D2 Group Corporate Headquarters Public Relations Team, Suzuki, at 080-1204-2909 or via email at [email protected]. Visit the official website for more details: Ginza Gallery.