Facing the Current features the artist’s largest 3D artwork to date. Measuring at two meters in length, the man-in-a-boat sculpture is placed alongside 19 brand-new canvas and multi-layered frame drawings. The sculpture depicts a man glumly contemplating on a boat with his imaginary friend. Reflecting upon tough times, he seems resolute to face the “current”, wherever it may bring him.

The word “current” has the double entendre of “present” and “tide”. Surfers either go with the “current” – the “tide”, or combat it if they get swept away. The “current” is unpredictable and wild, as you can be on your surfboard in one moment, and get engulfed in a matter of seconds. As a metaphor in life, much of our life is spent on dealing with the “current” – the “present”. Everyone has our own “present” and reality to face. This got Hanai questioning: “do we want to live in the current without facing the present, or do we want to face the present and keep rowing against the harsh current?”

Organized and curated by AllRightsReserved the exhibition is the most comprehensive solo show overseas by Japanese artist Yusuke Hanai featuring his largest sculptural artwork to date alongside 19 brand-new canvas and multi-layered frame drawings.

Shop 7, BELOWGROUND, LANDMARK Atrium, Central