Exploring Vitality: Masaki Matsuura's Solo Exhibition at THE GALLERY OMOTESANDO

Mixture of Past and Present in Masaki Matsuura's Art

Masaki Matsuura, a contemporary Japanese painter, will unveil his latest solo exhibition titled "Vitality," beginning on January 10, 2026, at THE GALLERY OMOTESANDO in Tokyo. Curated by Yasumasa Yonehara, this exhibition promises to offer a thought-provoking glimpse into the artist's interpretation of a traditional motif: the pine tree.

Artist Statement

In Japanese art history, the pine tree has been a recurring motif, symbolizing tradition and continuity. However, for Matsuura, it carries a deeper significance. He perceives the pine not only as a traditional symbol but also as a vessel for the spirit that connects past to present. Through his work, he explores this interplay, creating a bridge between the context of historical Japanese art and contemporary interpretations.

Matsuura expresses his modern sensations and impressions of pine trees through his mastery of traditional Japanese painting techniques. By doing so, he naturally reinterprets tradition, allowing for a continuous update of Japanese art's history. This exhibition presents a collection of works created with the same theme but influenced by diverse past and present factors, allowing an overview of how Matsuura positions himself within the broader context of history.

About Masaki Matsuura

Japanese painter Masaki Matsuura was born in Aichi Prefecture in 2002. He enrolled in the Japanese painting course at Nagoya Zokei University in 2021 and will graduate in 2025. His work can be found on social media platforms such as Instagram and X.

Matsuura's connection to the pine tree motif is deeply personal. Yasumasa Yonehara, who curated this exhibition, believes that for Matsuura, the pine represents not just a symbol of tradition but a medium that encapsulates the flow of life and spirit across generations. He interacts with traditional techniques not as a prisoner but as a dynamic participant, seeing the movement of brushes and pigments as a natural rhythm of breathing and gesture.

Exhibition Motivation

The "Vitality" exhibition aims to juxtapose artworks inspired by the same pine motif across various timelines and influences, highlighting the intersection of the spirit of painting that has existed since before the concept of Japanese art and the self-awareness of being a contemporary artist in today's world.

Matsuura’s interpretation reflects a balance between respecting tradition and looking towards a continuous evolution of life, embodied in the phrase "vitality." This exhibition seeks to evoke a sense of ongoing power and tangible feelings derived from the act of painting and the essence of living itself.

Exhibition Details

- Venue: THE GALLERY OMOTESANDO
- Period: January 10 (Sat) - February 1 (Sun), 2026
- Closed Days: Mondays and Tuesdays (Opening on January 12, holiday, and closed on January 14)
- Opening Hours: 12:00 - 19:00 (Closes at 17:00 on the 10th)