This is an exhibition of Japanese artist Katsumi Nakai’s defining oeuvre, despite being his later works from 1991 – 2011. In finding Milan, Nakai found freedom in his own terms, namely his signature style of ‘hiraku’ (opening) works. Since his first work in this manner in 1966, Nakai has continuously explored the different possibilities of ‘hiraku’（‮٦‬‭}‬٪ط) (opening), which is opening up from 2D into new space and dimensions. Nakai’s work is unique in its hybridity. His work is a cross between painting and sculpture, melding Eastern and Western influences (be it a conscious or unconscious decision). It is impossible to classify Nakai as one or the other, as his work reflects himself as a whole, whether that is his personality, or his life experiences from both the East (Japan) and West (Italy). Regardless of whether it was a conscious decision on Nakai’s part, the Eastern and Western influences have been absorbed by the artist through osmosis of simply living and experiencing culture from both Japan and Italy. Hence why viewers can get the sense of both Eastern and Western influences while looking at Nakai’s works.

Gallery address: G/F, 197 Hollywood Road