HISAYA TAIRA: SHIBUYA

NANZUKA is pleased to announces Shibuya, a solo exhibition of new works by the artist Hisaya Taira at NANZUKA 2G (15-1 Udagawacho, Shibuya-ku, Shibuya PARCO 2F). The exhibition is curated by AKIINOUE.

July 12 - August 11, 2024

Hisaya Taira was born in 1960 in Kurayoshi, Tottori Prefecture, Japan. He is renowned for his work. His notable solo exhibitions include "City Diptychs" at Yoshiaki Inoue Gallery, Osaka, in 2020, and "Exploring the Urbanscape and Beyond" at Anthony Brunelli Fine Arts, New York, in 2018.

Among his significant group exhibitions are "Size Doesn’t Matter: Food for Thought" at Louis K. Meisel Gallery, New York, in 2019, and "Photo Reference" at Belgrade Cultural Center The Art Gallery, Belgrade, Serbia, in 2012.

Since the 1990s, Taira has meticulously and faithfully depicted everyday scenes such as subway platforms, escalators, and backstreets using the technique of photorealism. His renowned series of escalator works, in particular, capture the overlooked beauty and functionality amid the urban hustle and bustle.

These works, which appear almost photographic due to their realistic technique, have garnered international acclaim. Taira sources his subjects from both Japan and abroad through his own research. In this exhibition, he focuses on the backstreets of Shibuya, Tokyo, which is the foundation of his artistic career.

Taira describes painting the intricate valley landscapes of Shibuya as akin to gazing through a forest along a valley. He deliberately selects unsophisticated, cluttered scenes within the metropolis.

Through his vibrant portrayal of the interplay of light and shadow, he beautifully expresses the chaos and tranquility of the city. Everyday moments, often passed by unnoticed, are given value through Taira's work, altering our perspectives.