BEAMS | Exhibition celebrating the 30th anniversary of "Z-chan"

BEAMS

At TOKYO CULTURE STORY by BEAMS

Exhibition Commemorating the 30th Anniversary of "Z-chan"

The character "Z-chan," created by artist Shingo Iguchi, celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. To commemorate this milestone, TOKYO CULTURE STORY by BEAMS will host the "ZCHAN 30th Anniversary Exhibition" from September 19 (Friday) to October 8 (Wednesday).

Text by KUROMIYA Yuzu

Limited Edition Collaboration Items with Kosuke Kawamura

With its signature pointed hat and eye mask, "Z-chan" was born in 1984 as the protagonist of a five-page manga in the subculture magazine "Bikkuri House" (Parco Publishing). The following year, it was serialized intermittently for ten years in the manga magazine "Garo" (Seirindo).

While taking the form of manga, it is characterized by its combination of different elements such as poetry and novels. Solo exhibitions and performances themed around "Z-chan" have also been frequently held since around 1986. More recently, the artist has primarily focused on art as a medium for expression, showcasing works in solo exhibitions and at art fairs both domestically and internationally.

Furthermore, Banrogh, a character from the story, gained significant popularity as a sub-character, with the picture book "Banrogh's Honey" (2001, Gakken) being published. Just last year, the English version "VANROGH’s HONEY" (Rikuyosha) was released as an art book.

This exhibition will feature and sell new tableaux and prints. Additionally, a limited edition ZINE, "Z30K," a collaboration with the acclaimed graphic designer Kosuke Kawamura, will be available with edition numbers. Original collaboration T-shirts and tote bags with BEAMS will also be offered.

A reception party will be held on Friday, October 3rd, featuring a performance titled "ROSE DANCE" by emerging dancer Saori Hara.

"Z-chan," with its artistic context, pop sensibility, and philosophically profound narratives, draws viewers into a unique world. Experience the expanding universe of "Z-chan," which continues to evolve even as it celebrates its 30th anniversary.

Shingo Iguchi “ZCHAN 30th Anniversary Exhibition”
Period: September 19 (Friday) – October 8 (Wednesday) *Closed Thursdays
Venue: TOKYO CULTURE STORY by BEAMS
3F, 3-24-7 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Tel. 03-3470-3251
http://www.beams.co.jp/news/detail/3765

Artist Profile

Shingo Iguchi

Born in Hiroshima in 1957. Debuted in the manga magazine "Garo" in 1983. Since 2006, Z-chan has primarily been expressed through art, with works exhibited in solo shows and at art fairs worldwide. In 2010, Z-chan's prints were displayed alongside works by Yayoi Kusama and Tadanori Yokoo in the "Shanghai Expo Commemorative Print Exhibition," featuring 12 Chinese and Japanese artists at the official pavilion of the Shanghai Expo.

Books: "Revised Edition ZCHAN Lotus" (Seirinkogeisha), "Z-chan Kabe no Ana" (Billiken Shuppan), "Banrogh's Honey," "Banrogh's Tulip" (Gakken), "You Who Became a First Grader" co-authored with Kaori Ekuni (Shogakukan), "VANROGH’s HONEY" (Rikuyosha), among others.
http://www.zchan.tokyo/