WAVE
Life is Good by Jenny Kaori, Courtesy of Japan House London
WHAT? WAVE: Currents in Japanese Graphic Arts
WHERE? Japan House, Gallery, Lower Floor
WHEN? Now until 22nd October. Free to view
WHY GO? For good vibrations. Contemporary Japanese art offers so much more than ‘manga’, which is now firmly embedded in popular indie culture.
For example, do you know what heta-uma is?
Controversially, it translates as bad but good and generally refers to the work of an amateur who hits lucky! And there seem to be lots of those in Japan.
This, along with a vibrant range of artistic genres, from photorealism to graphic line drawing, features in this dynamic little exhibition that illustrates just how creative young Japanese artists are today.
Curated by Hiro Sugiyama and Takahashi Kintaro, it follows their annual ground breaking exhibitions in Tokyo and examines the potential for commercial art that is challenging, exciting and always one step ahead of the curve.
IN THE KNOW
Hear from the experts. Spotlight talks with visiting artists are taking place in Japan House intermittently throughout the event. For just 15-30 minutes, you can tune into the mind-set of an artist and enjoy a cup of matcha tea.
Next up, on 14th September, the spotlight shines on the aesthetics of heta-uma. Check times online.