An Exhibition Unraveling Keiichi Tanaami's "Now"

The exhibition "Keiichi Tanaami Now - Keiichi Tanaami Dialogue," showcasing the work of Keiichi Tanaami—a leading figure for over half a century since the 1960s—is on view at Kyotoddd Gallery until Tuesday, October 23, 2018. The exhibition features approximately 20 new prints, animations, and three-dimensional works, alongside collaboration items with fashion brands, publications, and product designs, presenting Tanaami's unique pop universe.



Tanaami's oeuvre is remarkably diverse, encompassing design, illustration, animation, experimental film, sculpture, and painting. These works offer a glimpse into the authentic self of Keiichi Tanaami, who has consistently strived to be a fluid creator. In recent years, Tanaami has been engaged in creating what can be described as a "mandala" documenting his life's journey of over 80 years, using his own memories and dreams as the primordial landscape.

At first glance, Tanaami's recent works resemble peculiar yet pop-like depictions of yokai (Japanese spirits or monsters), but they are in fact rooted in his personal experiences and memories. The anthropomorphic bombs glowing within American bombers, and the menacing chickens and goldfish, are deeply connected to Tanaami's childhood memories of war.

Furthermore, his canvases are rich with references to the works of artists he admires, as well as characters from science fiction magazines and manga. These citations not only highlight Tanaami's relationship with pop art but also reflect his innate drive to transform his memories into something positive through his art.