WHAT
The duo exhibition showcases the works of two renowned Japanese post-war artists, who were members of the avant-garde Gutai Art Association – the first radical postwar artistic movement in Japan. The works on view create a new art-historical dialogue with fresh approaches to matter and individuation, highlighting the Gutai spirit and legacy by tracing the thread of action in the two artists’ works. Favouring performative expression and physical engagement over traditional methods, Gutai created a space for the exchange of cultures and disciplines, with the goal of increasing the visibility and awareness of Japanese art internationally.

WHY
Shimamoto (1928-2013) was the co-founder of Gutai. His creative process often involved smashing and throwing vases and bottles filled with paint onto a canvas. This ‘action painting’ embodied the spirit of Gutai – favouring concept over form and expanding art beyond the limits of traditional painting. On the other hand, Shiraga (1924-2008) established himself as a pioneer in performance painting and became known for his practice of suspending himself from the ceiling and painting with his feet. This method created a wide range of textures, and is a nod to the ancient Japanese tradition of sumo wrestling and the bond between artist and natural environment. It’s a must-see for all Gutai fans!