GROUP EXHIBITION

“Dimensions”* serves as a platform for young artists who may forge the future of art. For its fourth edition, the exhibition features Shizuka Ando, Kosuke Harasawa, and Chisato Yamashita (in alphabetical order). While each artist creates an exquisite worldview, they share a strong technical foundation built by Nihonga (Japanese painting). Although Nihonga is still often discussed in contrast to Western painting, it has increasingly found its place within the field of contemporary art, for the purpose of pursuing “newness” through various experiments and approaches. However, in the visions represented by these three artists, one finds none of the sharp-edged intensity, impenetrable conceptual defense, or towering egos typically associated with the term ‘contemporary’. Rather, what is strikingi is their quiet gaze upon a world where Western rationalism has reached its limits and saturation: a world of excessive information, environmental shifts, ecological disruptions,overly blurred boundaries with others and, conversely, heightened isolation—a world where the “unexpected” has become the default.

So, in such a time, what is art? What does it mean to paint? The subtitle of this exhibition, “art is,” deliberately leaves the predicate of the definition open, without providing an answer. The meaning of art differs for each person. Behind the detailed depictions lies a multitude of realities. It is our hope that the imagery woven by these three artists resonates with the thoughts of each viewer, creating a quiet chain of connections, and providing an opportunity to reflect on “what art means to me.” We look forward to welcoming you to this opportunity.