#Japan #Fukuoka #YUGEN Gallery #Masakazu Kitayama

Exhibition Highlights: TYPOGRAFFITI 4-5

YUGEN Gallery Fukuoka, located in the heart of Fukuoka city, is currently hosting the captivating exhibition "TYPOGRAFFITI 4-5" by renowned graphic designer and artist Masakazu Kitayama. This event runs from December 13, 2025, to January 19, 2026, showcasing approximately 20 pieces, including Kitayama's latest works originally exhibited at Tokyo's AL Gallery.

Artistic Exploration

Masakazu Kitayama is not just a designer; he is an innovator in bridging art and message. His works, often characterized by strong three-dimensional representations, turn words into physical forms that communicate more than just their literal meanings. The materials used, especially aluminum boards shaped through bending techniques, play a significant role in expressing the depth of his artistic intentions.

In an exclusive interview, Kitayama shared insights into why he treats language as a sculptural element and discussed the profound message behind his long-standing anti-war slogan "NO WAR." This phrase has been a pivotal part of his work since 2015, reflecting his commitment to voicing important social issues. He elaborated on how participating in protests helped awaken his passion for expression and gave birth to his desire to let art resonate with the human experience.

Special Events

Accompanying the exhibition are special events that look to further engage the audience. On December 14, a talk event was held featuring guest Nagao Jin, discussing the intersections of art and societal issues. Future events include a second talk on January 14, 2026, with pastor Tomoshi Okuda from Higashiyawata Christian Church, who is also a prominent figure in supporting impoverished communities.

Visitors to the gallery can expect an enriching experience not only through visual art but also through meaningful dialogue. Unique local food and drinks will be available during these events, including offerings from popular Fukuoka eateries such as "Sanmizu no Mizu" and "Vollmond," providing a delightful culinary experience to complement the artistic immersion.

For those interested in attending, pre-registration is required, and the registration link can be found here.

Exhibition Details

• - Title: TYPOGRAFFITI 4-5
• - Dates: December 13, 2025 - January 19, 2026
• - Hours: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Final day closes at 5:00 PM)
• - Location: YUGEN Gallery Fukuoka
• - Admission: Free

The full program and the artist's schedule are subject to change, so visitors are encouraged to stay updated via the gallery's official social media.

About YUGEN Gallery

Founded in February 2022, YUGEN Gallery aims to showcase contemporary Japanese art, with locations in both Tokyo and Fukuoka. The name "YUGEN" signifies a unique aesthetic concept in Japanese culture, encapsulating depth, elegance, and beauty. The gallery endeavors to introduce a diverse range of artworks from emerging artists, inviting audiences to explore the profound narratives woven into every piece.

For more information about YUGEN Gallery and to explore online sales of artworks, visit YUGEN Gallery's official site.