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[Image: Shuko Nakamura Shuko "Okina -Hakushikijou” (2022) Clay, Japanese paper, pigment, rabbit fur, and horsetail H60 x W22 x D9cm]

Shuko Nakamura "Narrative of Someone"

Gallery Kogure

Finished

Artists

Shuko Nakamura

After graduating from the Oil Painting Department at Tama Art University, Shuko Nakamura became deeply interested in creating masks. When she saw the exhibition “Legendary Makers of Noh* Masks” at the Tokyo National Museum in 2020, she was instantly captivated and decided to learn Noh from scratch. She started attending Noh theaters and began studying mask-making under the guidance of mask artist Tatsuya Arai, as well as practicing the dance movements under Noh performer Shuko Tsuchiya. She continues to create art while incorporating the impact, knowledge, and techniques she has gained from Noh. Starting with imitating traditional masks, Nakamura has been diligently studying and exploring the traditions while infusing her unique style, which evokes a sense of the distant future while also staying true to the ancient roots.

The essence of her work is a manifestation of the spiritual energy that emanates from her words and her physical presence, resembling an offering dedicated to the gods. This exhibition at Gallery Kogure, her first solo exhibition, will showcase her recent works of masks and headpieces. Each artwork has its own story, bringing together expressive pieces that go beyond the realm of Noh masks. We invite you to come and see for yourself.

Noh* is a Japanese traditional performing art that was registered as the First Intangible Cultural Heritage of UNESCO in 2008. It is called a “mask drama” or “masked performance”. In this performance, actors wear Noh masks and elaborate costumes, accompanied by melodic chanting with rhythmic patterns, music from flutes and drums, and dialogue and dance movements, all of which progress the story.

Schedule

Sep 1 (Fri) 2023-Sep 9 (Sat) 2023