K11 Art Matsuri – Ukiyo-e Art Exhibition

Good news for modern arts and Japanese culture’s lovers. An Art Matsuri (Festival), Ukiyo-e Art Exhibition is now being held at K11 Hong Kong Art Mall in Tsim Sha Tsui until 1 July. K11 collaborates with JPS Gallery to present K11 Art Matsuri – Modern Art of Floating World Exhibition, featuring the artwork of four outstanding ukiyo-e artists, Horihiro Mitomo, Ukiyoemon Mitomoya, Horitatsu and Bang Ganji. Ukiyo-e (浮世絵) is a Japanese art genre originated in the Edo period. Its influences can be found in many Impressionist artists. These four contemporary artists break the tradition and bridge the gap between traditional art and everyday life, combining ukiyo-e with modern elements. The exhibit has six main segments – Street Fashion, Japanese Work Culture, Anime, Manga, Yokai Culture and Ukiyo-e Art Derivatives.

Segment 1: Samurai and Geisha in the Modern World

In Horihiro Mitomo’s prints, samurai and geisha from the Edo era travelled through time into the modern world. They wear sneakers, drink soda and eat ice pop enjoying the comforts of modern life and fitting right into the crowd.

Segment 2: Salaryman and Drunk Salaryman World Premiere Exhibition

Former office worker Ukiyoemon Mitomoya’s signature “Salaryman” series show the plight of the office worker in humorous and surreal ways and brings public attention to the stress that many salarymen face at work. His work not only elicits laugh, but also let viewers think deeply about the meaning of office life or life.

Segment 3: Anime and Manga Culture in an Ukiyo-e World

For the younger generation, anime and manga are an indispensable part of their life rather than simply pop culture. Ukiyoemon Mitomoya’s work merges Doraemon and Pikachu with traditional samurai wear. Perhaps his samurai will call on some fantastic items from Doraemon’s pocket, or strike with Pikachu’s lightning.

Segment 4: Yokai in the Modern World

The Japanese word, yokai, encompasses many supernatural creatures from Japanese folklore. Bang Ganji brings his gang of yokai to K11 which includes Karakasa-kozo (Umbrella Ghost) and Hitotsume-kozo (One-eye Boy). His yokai do modern things like skateboarding, dancing and fashion shopping.

Segment 5: Street Art and Skateboarding with Ukiyo-e

Street art is a popular theme in modern culture and skateboard is very representative. Horitatsu substitutes skateboard for canvas, depicting mythical characters like Tsunade and Orochimaru from Naruto (火影忍者). What a special crossover.

Segment 6: Ukiyo-e Art Derivatives

Limited-quantity ukiyo-e art derivatives can be found at the chi K11 art space. Ukiyo-e fans can buy items designed and created by the four ukiyo-e masters. Live Ukiyo-e Portraits are also available.

Other programmes: The Complete Japanese Experience

In addition to K11 Art Matsuri Ukiyo-e Art Exhibition, there are other cultural events like a Japanese film show and a music programme. A number of K11 merchants also feature products from Japan which immerse you in Japanese culture. 

• Event: K11 Art Matsuri – Ukiyo-e Art Exhibition
• Date: 7 June – 1 July 2019
• Time: 10am to 10pm
• Venue: chi K11 art space (B2/F, K11 Art Mall)
• Admission: Free

How to get to K11 Hong Kong Art Mall

Address: 18 Hanoi Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong

• MTR Tsim Sha Tsui Station, Exit D3
• MTR East Tsim Sha Tsui Station, Exit N4

Are you going to the K11 Art Matsuri Ukiyo-e Art Exhibition? Please feel free to leave us comments or contact us if you have any questions.

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