Kobayashi’s paintings are born from the harmony of real and imaginary light, expanding into the space and taking in what is in the space at the same time. The frame-like pieces of wood around his paintings are projected outward and bent, which give the viewers a hard time describing what they are looking at. It is unclear whether his paintings are complete. If a painting is a physical material that relies on the real world, notwithstanding the shape and size of its structural support, there should not be a clear border dividing the real world and the painting. By cropping its outer frame intuitively as Painting of this Planet, Kobayashi can simultaneously realise the two image worlds: the world in which he sees an image in his head and the world in which the viewers recreate their own through contemplation.
In this exhibition, Kobayashi will present a new series of works in which he uses his model as his motif, in addition to the portraits of a horse in which the horse holds a paintbrush in its mouth and looks like it is about to come out of the painting. In one artwork, the depicted model is holding onto the side of the canvas and about to emerge from the canvas (Model of this Planet (Woman with a Scar on Her Chest), 2021). In another one, the traces that the fleeing model made creates a new painting (Running-Man, 2021). By letting the physicality of the painted object decide the physicality of the painting, Kobayashi’s paintings generate a reverse power dynamic where the model, not the artist, controls his paintings. After all, his image is not depicted on canvas but located far beyond meaning and concept. As the spectators of the planet, we will have to revolutionise the field of our imagination and create new images of our own. Along with this exhibition, we will present Kobayashi’s installation, A pair of artworks, exhibited separately = LOVE, connecting the Roppongi Art Complex, thanks to the support from the Contemporary Art Foundation. Please enjoy the exhibition.
Press release courtesy ShugoArts.
Masato KOBAYASHI "Family of this Planet" Installation movie Eng. from ShugoArts on Vimeo.
A respected voice in contemporary art discourse.
Focusing on ambitious storytelling and insightful art-world commentary. Ocula Magazine publishes in-depth interviews, critical essays and timely analysis on the artists, exhibitions and ideas driving the global art world.
Learn more about Ocula Magazine
Showcasing the best of the art world.
Ocula partners with galleries from around the world to highlight their artists, artworks and exhibitions. Gallery membership is by application and invitation, with each member vetted by an independent panel.
Learn more about Ocula Membership
Specialises in the sale of major artworks.
Led by a team with deep ties to the world’s leading auction houses, galleries and collectors. Ocula’s advisory team offers bespoke services to high-net-worth clients from around the world who are looking to acquire the best of contemporary and modern art.
Learn more about our team and services