Gozo Yoshimasu Exhibition: A New Journey of Departure

An exciting event is on the horizon for art lovers and poetry enthusiasts alike. The SIGNING company will present the Signature Exhibition vol.11, featuring the renowned poet Gozo Yoshimasu from May 20 to June 21, 2025, at the SIGNAL social issue gallery located in Toramon, Tokyo. The exhibition titled 'Aiueo, No, A!' serves as a poignant exploration of departure and remembrance.

Exhibition Overview

This exhibition is set against the backdrop of Yoshimasu's extensive career, having debuted in 1964 with 'Departure' and continued to push the boundaries of poetic expression for over six decades. Attendees will be witnesses to a unique component of the exhibition—the display of his handwritten manuscripts, including both published works and previously unseen drafts that resonate with themes of loss and memory. This is not just an art exhibit; it is a multi-sensory journey through Yoshimasu's mind, beautifully capturing his reflections on the journeys of others who have left this world.

Alongside these literary artifacts, visitors can experience audiovisual performances that further delve into the essence of Yoshimasu’s writings and ideas. The juxtaposition of his thoughtful writings with multimedia presentations promises an immersive experience that invites contemplation on the nature of existence, creativity, and the acts of saying goodbye.

Spotlight on Gozo Yoshimasu

Born in Tokyo in 1939, Gozo Yoshimasu is much more than just a poet; he is an avant-garde visionary who has consistently redefined the world of contemporary poetry. His notable works include 'Golden Poem' (1970), 'Osiris, God's Stone' (1984), and 'Naked Memo' (2011), among others. In addition to poetry, he is also recognized as a pioneer in reading performances, collaborating with musicians and dancers, thus highlighting the performative nature of poetry itself.

His ability to transform simple words into powerful expressions has earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Takami Jun Prize. This exhibition will not only shed light on his creative brilliance but also the emotional depth of his work, revealing how he finds a ‘light’ in the darkness of loss.

Curators and Contributors

The exhibition has been organized by Sayuri Okamoto, a translator and curator who has dedicated her work to bringing Yoshimasu's poetics to the international stage. Junshiro Kameyama, also co-CEO at SIGNING, has been instrumental in the planning of this event, showcasing the importance of social design in art and life.

The opening night on May 23, 2025, will feature a special performance merging poetry and music, further entwining the themes of Yoshimasu’s work with live artistic expression. Concurrently, on June 6, 2025, a unique reading event will take place where Yoshimasu will be joined by influential collaborators to explore the auditory qualities of poetry.

Exhibition Details

- Opening Date: May 20, 2025
- Closing Date: June 21, 2025
- Opening Hours: Tuesday to Friday from 11 AM to 11 PM and Saturday from 11 AM to 6 PM. Closed on Sundays, Mondays, and public holidays.
- Admission: Free
- Location: 1-2-11 Toranomon, The ParkRex Toranomon, 1F, Tokyo
- Website: SIGNING

This exhibition not only celebrates a significant figure in contemporary art, but it also acts as a platform for dialogues concerning social issues we face today. By combining cultural reflections with communal experiences, SIGNAL stands as a beacon for both artistic expression and social consciousness in the heart of Tokyo. Don't miss this opportunity to engage with the profound work of Gozo Yoshimasu during this iconic exhibition that promises to be heartfelt and memorable.