#Japan #Tokyo #COPYCENTER GALLERY #Rota Chikuyama #S.L.L.S.

Art Exhibition 'S.L.L.S.' by Rota Chikuyama

An exciting art exhibition titled "S.L.L.S." by renowned artist Rota Chikuyama will be held at COPYCENTER GALLERY in Itabashi, Tokyo, from January 30 to February 10, 2026. This event marks Chikuyama's first solo exhibit in four years, focusing on the space created during the observation process before images are presented as finished photographs.

Exploring the Process of Observation

Chikuyama has consistently drawn attention to the preparatory stages of creating an image, emphasizing the actions that accompany the act of seeing — the preparation and adjustment stages that precede the final artwork. In this exhibition, he creates an immersive installation that utilizes tools, bodily movements, light, and scent, highlighting the very process of observation as a spatial experience.

A Conceptual Approach to Tools

The title "S.L.L.S." stands for "Stop Look Listen Smell," serving as an enigmatic label akin to one that might be attached to a tool without a defined usage. It suggests that the final visual representation (the 'image') always comes last, following the arrangement of tools and conditions that must be satisfied for something to appear. Even if no tangible image is produced, the steps taken in the process remain completed.

This exhibition offers a unique opportunity to view Chikuyama’s current endeavor, rooted in the synergy between shooting and capturing images, and striving for new visual understanding.

Exhibition Details

• - Exhibition Name: Rota Chikuyama Solo Exhibition "S.L.L.S."
• - Artist: Rota Chikuyama
• - Dates: January 30 (Fri) - February 10 (Tue), 2026
• - Opening Hours: 13:00 - 19:00
• - Admission Fee: 500 yen (QR payments and select electronic money accepted)
• - Venue: COPYCENTER GALLERY, 4-4-2 Itabashi, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo, Japan, B1F MIKUNI Building
• - Website: COPYCENTER GALLERY
• - Design Credits: Designed by Heiji Yagi, design assistance by Yo Hoshika; supported by Takumi Sone (GROUP), Haruka Uzuki (UTGY), Takafumi Kawahara, and Fuyuki Suzuki.

About COPYCENTER GALLERY

COPYCENTER GALLERY is a unique alternative space operated by PHOTOPRI, known for high-quality printing services for photo and art exhibitions. Located in front of Shin-Itabashi Station, this gallery aims to utilize its origins as a printing company to pursue a deep commitment to giving shape to artistic expressions. With a focus on photographic art, the gallery serves as an open platform for young artists to transform this boundary-pushing space through diverse practices. Stay tuned for further activities in the future.

For inquiries related to this exhibition, please contact:
PHOTOPRI Co., Ltd.
COPYCENTER GALLERY Public Relations
Phone: 070-9278-8828
Email: [email protected]