Asano Katsumi Exhibition

Jan 7, 2024 (Sun) - Jan 28, 2024 (Sun)

Wednesday to Sunday: 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Final day of the exhibition: 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Closed: Mondays (Open on January 8th, a public holiday), Tuesdays
Winter Closure: December 25 (Monday) to January 6 (Saturday)

Artist in Attendance
The recovery of Haneda Airport has progressed quickly, and we are pleased to inform you that Ms. Katsumi Asano will be able to attend as scheduled. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
・January 7th (Sunday): 14:00 to 17:00
・January 8th (Monday, Holiday): 11:00 to 15:00

Press Release

Artland Gallery is pleased to introduce the latest works of Asano Katsum , who is based in Tokyo, in a solo exhibition after 13 years. Her artworks are characterized by delicate and intricate expressions, combining visual beauty with profound lyricism. Asano describes her artistic process as "resilient lyricism," passionately pursuing fantastical themes and expressive lyricism.

Asano began learning copperplate engraving in 1984, participating in various solo and group exhibitions. Since 2015, she has incorporated oil mixed media, expanding into the realm of detailed pencil drawings with delicate expressions. Utilizing these techniques, she continues to create a "beautiful" world based on her unique visual preferences.

In this exhibition, we will showcase approximately 30 fantastical works, including copperplate engravings, pencil drawings, and oil mixed media pieces, with a focus on human figures. These pieces reflect her extensive experience and artistic insight, inviting the audience into her distinctive aesthetic world.

Celebrating 35 years since her debut, Asano has contributed to numerous book illustrations and drawings, garnering attention in both domestic and international exhibitions. This exhibition serves as a valuable opportunity to witness Asano's multifaceted talents and unwavering dedication to her art.

Her works, meticulously crafted over time, possess an indescribable magnetic force that captivates viewers and refuses to let go. The collection expressing her pursuit of "fearful beauty" is sure to evoke deep emotions in the audience.

Asano Katsumi "Frightening Beauty"

It's been 35 years since my debut, a significant milestone. Looking back on this journey, I believe that the essential aspects have remained unchanged. When it comes to creating art, my visual preferences are my foundation. Above all, what I "love" takes precedence. From there, images and themes unfold, often described as fantastical, but at its core, I consider it to be lyricism and lyricism alone. I sometimes refer to it as "sturdy lyricism." From this point, the world of "beauty" as I perceive it expands.

In the case of etchings, I take a needle in hand and simply make dots. If it's a pencil, I steadily and gradually progress, bit by bit. When I started with oil painting, I thought I could paint with a bit more freedom, but I still find myself layering with a thin brush repeatedly. I've come to accept that I'll keep drawing until I'm satisfied; it's just my nature. So, I might as well take all the time I need to perfect the "beauty" I have in mind. If I could capture something like "frightening beauty," that would be my greatest wish.