1. Foreword
“POKÉMON × KOGEI”: Many of you might be surprised to find these words together. Since the 1996 release of the video games Pokémon Red and Pokémon Green, Pokémon has evolved into an extremely popular and universally recognizable brand that continues to fascinate the entire world, transcending the geographical and language boundaries It brings together a wide range of generations. Children who grew up playing the video game can enjoy it again with their own children and grandchildren. Now Pokémon meets kogei, or craft.
Throughout its long history, kogei supported our everyday life by putting their functionality and decorative qualities to full use. Today, kogei has evolved into an autonomous form of art, in whose richness and variety Japan takes particular pride. A deep understanding of materials, refined skills, and a passionate determination are evident in many pieces. At the same time, they offer an insight into Japan’s unique view of nature and spirituality, further stimulating our interest.
For this exhibition, 20 leading artists of contemporary Japanese kogei, ranging from living national treasures to up-and-coming talents, have realized works on the theme of Pokémon in a wide variety of materials and techniques. All the objects have been created exclusively for this occasion, each demonstrating the various approaches each artist took to the subject. Pokémon and kogei as you have never seen them before: the show will offer many new revelations.
We invite you to witness the encounter between Pokémon and kogei and enjoy your own great discoveries.
Last but not least, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to all those involved for their generous support in organizing this exhibition.
Organizers
Throughout its long history, kogei supported our everyday life by putting their functionality and decorative qualities to full use. Today, kogei has evolved into an autonomous form of art, in whose richness and variety Japan takes particular pride. A deep understanding of materials, refined skills, and a passionate determination are evident in many pieces. At the same time, they offer an insight into Japan’s unique view of nature and spirituality, further stimulating our interest.
For this exhibition, 20 leading artists of contemporary Japanese kogei, ranging from living national treasures to up-and-coming talents, have realized works on the theme of Pokémon in a wide variety of materials and techniques. All the objects have been created exclusively for this occasion, each demonstrating the various approaches each artist took to the subject. Pokémon and kogei as you have never seen them before: the show will offer many new revelations.
We invite you to witness the encounter between Pokémon and kogei and enjoy your own great discoveries.
Last but not least, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to all those involved for their generous support in organizing this exhibition.
Organizers