NowHere NYC, a thriving hub for New York City-based Japanese artists across all disciplines, is readying its next exhibition. Kicking off in December is Classical Mutation, an exhibition built in partnership with renowned Japanese fine art goods company and gallery B-OWND, that will compile over 100 works by acclaimed experimental Japanese ceramicists, Takahiro Koga and Hiromine Nakamura.
Both Koga and Nakamura draw from traditional Japanese aesthetics for design inspiration, infusing these timeless cultural motifs with relevant, modern pop culture elements like anime, sports, and fashion. But each artist has his own distinctive, cutting-edge approach to sculpting.
Koga leans into “NEO WABI-SABI,” which is rooted in the combination and juxtaposition of the “simplicity of stillness” with the “vibrancy of motion.” Across his range of works, Koga blends his admiration for imperfections with the kawaii culture of anime and video games.
Nakamura, on the other hand, reimagines the samurai crests and helmets in a modern light, conceptualizing what would happen if an Edo-period doll maker encountered modern fashion culture. He envisions today’s sports stars and fashion figures as our “modern-day samurais,” and looks to further tap into the aspirations and prayers of modern society. Get a glimpse at what you can expect at Classical Mutations below.
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Classical Mutation opens at NowHere on December 14, 2023 and will remain on display through January 14, 2024, at the below address. RSVP to Classical Mutation‘s opening reception – December 14 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. – here.
40 Wooster St., New York, NY 10013
Ahead of Classical Mutation‘s launch, B-OWND will set up shop at SCOPE Miami Beach 2023 for the first time ever to showcase 120 pieces of Takahiro Koga’s works. Guests can also explore his “NEO MANEKINEKO” series, created specifically for the Classical Mutation exhibit. Additionally, guests can indulge in a live performance by EDM performance group TRiECHOES, as well as a collaboration with TeaRoom: a “NEO WABI-SABI” tea ceremony featuring Koga’s tea services
