Exploring Open Futures: Art and Culture at GOCA by GARDE in New York
The group exhibition titled 'Stand clear of the closing doors, Please' is taking place at GOCA by GARDE from July 10 to August 27, 2025. This exhibition, curated by GARDE, a Tokyo-based company specializing in total services in interior design and consulting, focuses on Japanese and Asian artists. The name of the exhibition originates from the familiar announcements in the New York subway, symbolizing the challenges posed by modernity, where boundaries—cultural, social, and physical—are continuously challenged.
Three standout artists, Yuya Saito, Shinji Murakami, and Hiroshi Masuda, convey powerful perspectives through their work in search of bridging divides in our increasingly polarized world. Each artist brings a distinct style and voice that resonate within the goal of creating accessible art spaces that foster connection amidst societal tensions.
Focusing on skateboard structures, Yuya Saito challenges hierarchical assumptions through his sculptures, infused with urban critique. His journey into art was catalyzed by the experience of the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, prompting him to explore the relationship between humanity and urban environments. He skillfully integrates traditional bentwood techniques with modern themes to visualize the fluid dynamics ingrained in the urban spirit. Saito's 'flow-chitecture' presents the potential for accessing free spaces within societal norms while reflecting on the porous boundary separating 'high art' and street culture.
Shinji Murakami stands as a pioneer of new landscape painting, deeply inspired by 8-bit gaming culture. He utilizes Atari 2600 and a user-friendly visual language to craft nostalgic yet cutting-edge realms that invite participation. His recent works draw from the historic and artistic significance of Ukiyo-e, especially the series 'The One Hundred Famous Views of Edo' by Utagawa Hiroshige, melding it with contemporary digital expressions. This fusion enables Murakami to enhance the dialogue surrounding the accessibility of art through gaming paradigms, rekindling the excitement of our collective cultures.
Hiroshi Masuda uniquely blends Eastern philosophies with pop culture to interrogate the essence of humanity through delightful visual expressions. Drawing on his extensive travels, he critically engages with themes of culture, politics, and society, probing the very fabric of our existence. Masuda explores the constant interchange of molecules that constitute life while reflecting on Buddhist concepts of transience, portraying the imperfections and dualities inherent in existence. His work acts as a vehicle for social critique, cleverly provoking thought on where we stand as a society.
Despite their individual backgrounds and artistic mediums, these three artists resonate with notions of open access, connection, and the fluid movements of people and ideas across boundaries. As they address issues within a constricted and intolerant society, their works serve as a subtle yet profound reminder of our need for dialogue and diversity. Through their lenses, Saito symbolizes an open urban structure, Masuda illustrates the ongoing cycle of life, while Murakami introduces a novel way of thinking through open technologies and perspectives.
The opening events on July 9 and 10 were marked by heartfelt greetings and discussions from the exhibiting artists, who shared their commitment and stories behind their artworks. Around 200 guests, ranging from art collectors to New York's creative community, congregated in a refined setting curated by OYAMADA JAPAN, who brought Japanese culinary culture to life through crafted rice balls. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement, embodying the merging of New York's artistic scene with Japanese traditions. For those interested, the opening reception can be revisited through GARDE’s official YouTube channel.
Located in the culturally rich Chelsea district, GOCA by GARDE aims to be a conduit for artistic exchange, showcasing modern Asian art and fostering dialogue within the art community. As the global art nexus continues to evolve, GARDE remains committed to its mission of enhancing cultural engagements and overlaps in today's artistic landscape.
A New Wave of Japanese Artists
Three standout artists, Yuya Saito, Shinji Murakami, and Hiroshi Masuda, convey powerful perspectives through their work in search of bridging divides in our increasingly polarized world. Each artist brings a distinct style and voice that resonate within the goal of creating accessible art spaces that foster connection amidst societal tensions.
Yuya Saito
Focusing on skateboard structures, Yuya Saito challenges hierarchical assumptions through his sculptures, infused with urban critique. His journey into art was catalyzed by the experience of the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, prompting him to explore the relationship between humanity and urban environments. He skillfully integrates traditional bentwood techniques with modern themes to visualize the fluid dynamics ingrained in the urban spirit. Saito's 'flow-chitecture' presents the potential for accessing free spaces within societal norms while reflecting on the porous boundary separating 'high art' and street culture.
Shinji Murakami
Shinji Murakami stands as a pioneer of new landscape painting, deeply inspired by 8-bit gaming culture. He utilizes Atari 2600 and a user-friendly visual language to craft nostalgic yet cutting-edge realms that invite participation. His recent works draw from the historic and artistic significance of Ukiyo-e, especially the series 'The One Hundred Famous Views of Edo' by Utagawa Hiroshige, melding it with contemporary digital expressions. This fusion enables Murakami to enhance the dialogue surrounding the accessibility of art through gaming paradigms, rekindling the excitement of our collective cultures.
Hiroshi Masuda
Hiroshi Masuda uniquely blends Eastern philosophies with pop culture to interrogate the essence of humanity through delightful visual expressions. Drawing on his extensive travels, he critically engages with themes of culture, politics, and society, probing the very fabric of our existence. Masuda explores the constant interchange of molecules that constitute life while reflecting on Buddhist concepts of transience, portraying the imperfections and dualities inherent in existence. His work acts as a vehicle for social critique, cleverly provoking thought on where we stand as a society.
Collective Impact
Despite their individual backgrounds and artistic mediums, these three artists resonate with notions of open access, connection, and the fluid movements of people and ideas across boundaries. As they address issues within a constricted and intolerant society, their works serve as a subtle yet profound reminder of our need for dialogue and diversity. Through their lenses, Saito symbolizes an open urban structure, Masuda illustrates the ongoing cycle of life, while Murakami introduces a novel way of thinking through open technologies and perspectives.
Opening Reception
The opening events on July 9 and 10 were marked by heartfelt greetings and discussions from the exhibiting artists, who shared their commitment and stories behind their artworks. Around 200 guests, ranging from art collectors to New York's creative community, congregated in a refined setting curated by OYAMADA JAPAN, who brought Japanese culinary culture to life through crafted rice balls. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement, embodying the merging of New York's artistic scene with Japanese traditions. For those interested, the opening reception can be revisited through GARDE’s official YouTube channel.
Exhibition Details
- - Exhibition Title: Stand clear of the closing doors, Please
- - Dates: July 10 – August 27, 2025
- - Location: GOCA by GARDE, 515 W 23rd St, New York, NY 10011
- - Admission: Free
- - Official Website: GOCA by GARDE
Artist Profiles
- - Yuya Saito: A New York-based artist from Japan, Saito merges street culture with dynamic sculpts reflecting urban life's chaos. For more insight, visit his website.
- - Shinji Murakami: He reinterprets pixel art in a modern context, pushing boundaries with AR technology. Learn more at his website.
- - Hiroshi Masuda: A visual artist who travels for inspiration, Masuda queries humanity’s core through diverse artistic channels. Discover his work at his website.
About GOCA by GARDE
Located in the culturally rich Chelsea district, GOCA by GARDE aims to be a conduit for artistic exchange, showcasing modern Asian art and fostering dialogue within the art community. As the global art nexus continues to evolve, GARDE remains committed to its mission of enhancing cultural engagements and overlaps in today's artistic landscape.
Topics Entertainment & Media）
【About Using Articles】
You can freely use the title and article content by linking to the page where the article is posted.
※ Images cannot be used.
【About Links】
Links are free to use.