Japanese Illustrators Exhibition In New York

"Create 8 TOKYO 11"

NYCoo Gallery presents in June an exhibition entitled "Cre 8 Tokyo 11-Japanese Illustrators' Exhibition in New York." This group exhibition is the second, organized by Cre 8, an agency with a membership of 310 illustrators in Japan. The eleven are all members of the Cre 8 who are different from those that participated in the previous show. They are showing their works in New York for the first time, and are anxious to receive responses from viewers that may help give them insights and new directions in their works going forward. I recommend strongly that you visit this highly charged "Cre 8 Tokyo 11."

The pop culture that symbolizes contemporary Japanese society has gained world attention. Art students in the US often adopt the vocabulary and are influenced by its aesthetics in their paintings and design. They believe it represents the visual forefront of expression. These participating 11 artists are bringing their works from the very source
of that culture. Their intention is to exhibit works that are fully focused on their own expression without the limitation imposed by the conditions set by their clients. Hence this exhibition delivers us intense expectations.

Conversely, imposed limitations can in some instance help and/or direct studio practice. Then what can happen when all the limitations are eliminated and freedom of expression allowed? Could there then be a true sense of self expression when working within the trend of the pop culture? These questions may not be so easily answered. The participating 11 artists have written short statements of their aspirations in their works. Listing of some words from their statements may describe what they anticipate of viewers. The number in parenthesis indicates the number of times the words were used. To give viewers smiles (2), relaxation (1), something to remain (2), enjoyment (1), vitality and impact (2), global feeling that may transcend races (1). One unusual comment is: to show one's every day expression.

And why New York? - to become acquainted with the responses from abroad (3), as the center of the art world (2), to gain something that may change one's work (2), to acquire something for the next plan (1), international business opportunities (1), exchanges with New Yorkers (1), to test oneself (1), to believe in the momentum (1). Their sentiment and impulse, as the common denominator within these chosen words, is that by participating in this exhibition these 11 artists aim to take a leap furthering their creative direction.

Illustrators