We can easily find in some gardens, always standing statues, mostly made of metal or marble, to resist the changes in outdoor weather. However, if it is an indoor garden, the material of the sculpture is no longer subject to environmental conditions. Recently, WOAW Gallery held the first Asian exhibition “URLANDSCHAFT” for Japanese multimedia artist En Iwamura, a series of iconic cartoon sculptures displayed in a lush indoor space, bringing a fresh natural atmosphere!
Iwamura Toh from Kyoto, Japan, draws inspiration from the destructive chaos of pandemics, climate disasters, wars, and the perplexing world to create works such as paintings, sculptures, and installations, aiming to evoke the vitality of life and a sense of wonder, prompting reflection on the cost behind various destruction beyond chaos.
The artist brings a ceramic sculpture named “Neo Jomon: Beans” to Hong Kong this time, presenting a vibrant “simple circle” with a cartoonish and playful expression. The artist uses gentle gradients to depict the work, casting strange and unique shapes, quirky yet cute appearances, and a lively childlike atmosphere that embellishes the entire space. This feeling resonates deeply with the neutral faces and captivating geometric patterns in abstract ink paintings.
Iwamura Toh has specially created a new plant installation, transforming the gallery into an indoor garden, creating a gentle and pleasant tranquil scene, allowing the artist to continue exploring the concept of “Ma” in artistic practice – a Japanese aesthetic concept about space and time.
Iwamura Tohru expressed that the exhibited works depict primitive landscapes from deep within the human heart, often accompanied by nostalgia, but they can be a psychological landscape rather than originating from reality. Visitors are encouraged to explore the exhibition, delve into this garden filled with adorable “elves,” and carefully appreciate the artist’s meticulously designed dreamlike realm.
Iwamura Toh’s solo exhibition “URLANDSCAPE”
Date: From now until July 7 (Closed on Sundays and Mondays)
Time: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Location: WOAW Gallery, 9 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong
Learn more: WOAW Gallery, En Iwamura
Image source: instagram@woawgallery, eniwamura; designboom
