A photography exhibition by Kōkō Yokosuka is being held at Art PARQS in Toyama. The exhibition features works that capture serene moments, including those of fashion model Sayoko Yamaguchi. The period is from Saturday, March 30, 2024, to Monday, May 6, 2024.

This photography exhibition curates the unique aesthetic sensibilities of Sayoko Yamaguchi and Kōkō Yokosuka as a "New World." It proposes a spirit, perspective, and aura that connects the beauty and aesthetic principles derived from nature, woven through ancient Japan, to the future.

In recent times, one moving event after another has unfolded. Amidst this, the origin of this event lies in the desire to transform the aesthetic sensibilities hidden within the Japanese DNA into a forward-looking force for the future by re-excavating them.

The existence of a young generation is crucial for creating and connecting the future. Therefore, while preserving the intentions of Ms. Yamaguchi and Mr. Yokosuka, the title "New World" embodies the wish that aesthetic sensibilities will be passed down to the younger generation, and that young people will pursue their own ideal worlds amidst the ever-changing times.

During the exhibition period, donations will be solicited for the support of young artisans involved in Wajima lacquerware, and the collected funds will be donated.

These works, with their profoundly Japanese and serene worldview, embody the passion and aesthetic sensibilities of Ms. Yamaguchi and Mr. Yokosuka, along with a fervent message for the generations who will shape the future.

Kōkō Yokosuka
A leading photographer in Japan. While studying at the Department of Photography, College of Art and Design, Nihon University, he gained attention for his contemporary and innovative advertising expressions with Shiseido's creative staff, and began working as a freelancer immediately after graduation. In 1963, he simultaneously received the Nikkai-bi Encouragement Prize, the ADC Special Award, and the Mainichi Design Advertising Special Award. In 1966, he created the legendary Shiseido Summer Campaign advertisement featuring Minari Maeda as the model during Japan's first overseas location shoot. In 1983, he became the first Japanese freelance photographer for Italian and French VOGUE, expanding his career globally. His TV commercial work also garnered international acclaim, winning the Grand Prix in the Film and Poster category at the Cannes Film Festival in 1975 for Suntory Whisky (Sammy Davis Jr. edition) and a Bronze Award in the same category in 1981. Yokosuka's work consistently pursues what lies beneath the surface of his subjects, exploring light, capturing the essence of the body, and perceiving invisible presences, dedicating his life to the pursuit of beauty.

Sayoko Yamaguchi
After graduating from Sugino Dressmaker School, she began her career as a fashion model in 1972, participating in numerous collections by designers who defined the era, primarily in Paris and New York. From 1973, as an exclusive model for Shiseido, she impressed both domestically and internationally with the beauty of Japanese women, and was selected as one of the "Top Four Models in the World" by Newsweek magazine in the United States. In parallel, she was active as a stage and dance performer in many productions. She also handled hair and makeup, and costume design for operas and plays. In the 2000s, she expanded her activities to include DJing and readings in underground spaces such as Roppongi SuperDeluxe. Furthermore, she directed, produced, and performed in collaborative works with visual artists and musicians, fusing various expressions including fashion, film, music, literature, and dance. Identifying herself not as a "fashion model" but as a "wearist," she aimed to merge fashion and dance performance, actively collaborating with young artists who would lead the next generation.

New World
Period | Saturday, March 30, 2024 - Monday, May 6, 2024
Venue | Art PARQS
35-8 Shimoshinmachi, Toyama City, Toyama Prefecture PARQS358 1F
Closed | Tuesdays and Wednesdays (Excluding April 30 and May 1)
Admission Fee | Free