2023/09/25 ESOW’S WONDERLAND ｜Joint Exhibition

I don’t think art is propaganda; it should be something that liberates the soul, provokes the imagi- nation and encourages people to go further.
- Keith Haring (May 4, 1958 - February 16, 1990 American Neo-Pop artist, active in the 1980s)

The tapestry of graffiti's origins weaves through the annals of time, from the ancient echoes of prehistoric caves adorned with enigmatic brushstrokes to the post-war era, where it emerged as a testament to individual expression. It has adorned urban landscapes and transit vessels across bustling metropolises. This vibrant art form continued to evolve, entwining with the fabric of the early 20th century to birth an underground culture that thrived particularly in the heart of New York City.

From humble beginnings, what started as mere strokes has blossomed into a kaleidoscope of expressions. This includes bold block letters, intricate patterns, whimsical characters, and ethereal abstractions. Each stroke serves as a testament to the boundless individuality and untamed imagi- nation of the artists who wield their brushes upon the canvas of creation.

Graffiti transcends mere artistry. It becomes a vessel through which thoughts and emotions flow, mirroring both the ebb and flow of time and the artists' profound perceptions of the world, society, and the complex tapestry of existence that envelops them.

Born in Tokyo in 1972, ESOW discovered graffiti at the age of 17 when he moved to the U.S. Immersed in the ethereal aura of the Edo period's cultural legacy, he nurtured his artistic essence and developed a style that exists in the realm of the extraordinary. With strokes of ingenuity and hues of innovation, he has painted a visual symphony, whispering secrets that only the discerning eye can decipher.

His masterpieces unveil myriad facets of enchanting Japanese culture, conveyed through a kaleido- scope of vivid mediums. These works dance not only upon the canvas but also extend to murals, timber panels, and even transcend into the realm of three-dimensional wonder. Amidst the vibrant history of graffiti, ESOW offers a glimpse of ethereal grace nestled within its rugged embrace.

"The Varicolored World" encapsulates the essence of humanity at large. It can signify prosperity and exaggeration, or represent the unique dreams and fantasies that dwell within each of us.

In the exhibition "ESOW'S WONDERLAND," the artist ESOW offers a candid lens into the life of a middle-aged Japanese man, presenting it with humor and whimsy. The exhibition showcases ESOW's creative origins through a diverse array of mediums, including canvas, woodblock prints, and three-dimensional works. The goal of this exhibition is to inspire viewers to embrace more colorful and humorous imaginations in their everyday lives.

Join us for a journey into the realm of ESOW's creativity.