Exploring the Intersection of Art and Nature at Saito Hana's Exhibition 'co/evo/lution'

Experience the Intersection of Art and Nature: 'co/evo/lution' by Saito Hana

The acclaimed artist Saito Hana is set to present her latest solo exhibition titled "co/evo/lution" at the innovative art space WALL_shinjuku, located in Lumine Shinjuku. This exhibition, taking place from July 13th to October 29th, marks the fourth showcase since the opening of this unique art venue, run by Avex Creator Agency in collaboration with Lumine.

Saito Hana, a contemporary artist known for her unique approach that melds themes of nature and human existence, brings to life her fascination with slime molds through intricate artworks that reflect their movements and colors. Currently enrolled in the doctoral program at the University of Tokyo, Hana is meticulously cultivating and observing slime molds, using these natural life forms to create compelling pieces that challenge our perceptions of the inherent connections between living beings and the environment.

In her exhibition, visitors can expect to see her notable piece "Eaten Colors," which continually evolves with the presence of microorganisms. The exhibition is also inspired by Lumine's 2025 spring campaign slogan, "Kindness always makes more than one person happy." Alongside these works, Saito plans to unveil new pieces crafted from second-hand clothing collected through Lumine's resource circulation initiative, "anewloop," which emphasizes the importance of reuse and recycling in contemporary art practices.

As part of the opening celebrations on the first day, a talk session will be held on July 13, starting at 1:00 PM. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with the artist and discuss her work while enjoying a reception. Given that space is limited, advance registration is recommended through the provided link (https://forms.gle/dGtJVn15D24BMNSG7).

In creating her artworks, Saito incorporates patterns derived from color-infused food given to slime molds she collects in the mountains, illustrating the intricate relationship between the artist and the organisms she studies. By carefully placing these molds in artificial environments—infusing them with a variety of substances they would otherwise never encounter—she challenges traditional boundaries within the artistic process. While it may seem that the artist is merely utilizing the molds, Saito points out that her role resembles that of a bird transporting seeds, as she expands their habitats into urban settings.

The slime molds, having left their natural habitats through her efforts, now adapt to survive within the confines of a building while sustained by the colors and humidity preserved in their cases. They begin a new chapter of existence amidst the bustling city, opening up a dialogue on how we coexist and utilize one another for survival, as happiness and misfortune often intertwine two or more lives.

Opening Reception & Talk Event Details

- Date: July 13, 1:00 - 2:00 PM
- Location: Lumine Shinjuku, Lumine 2 - 2F SPOT J (3-38-2 Shinjuku, Shinjuku Ward)
- Entry: Free, with priority given to registered attendees (sign up at https://forms.gle/dGtJVn15D24BMNSG7)
- Special Gift: Each registrant will receive an original sticker to commemorate the exhibition.

About Saito Hana

Born in 1988, Saito Hana operates between Tokyo and Yamanashi, graduating from Tama Art University with a degree in glass art. Since participating in metaPhorest—an art platform focused on biological and biomedia art—she has been active within the bioart community. Currently pursuing further studies at the University of Tokyo, Saito investigates the intersection of various disciplines including biology and organic materials. Her recent works draw on themes that reevaluate the dichotomies of nature/society and human/non-human relationships.