Ryo Arai in "Essence of Edo-Tokyo" at ICN, London

Posted in Cryptozoology, Curiosa & Forteana, Exhibitions / Openings / Signings, Eyecandy, Horror / Goth, Sculpture by Suzanne on November 4th, 2011 | BBC Wikipedia

Jorogumo by Ryo Arai - click to enlarge

This is an exhibition announcement for a brand new gallery space London, i.e. myself, has been waiting for: ICN Gallery has officially set foot in Leonard Street to FINALLY bring some much needed japanophilia to East London's art scene and will therefore from now on be my first automatic stop to check out in town - just like the always yummy sushi counter at the Japan Centre.

Essence of Edo-Tokyo presents the works of Ryo Arai & ITARO - both are showing to a London audience for the very first time.

Ubume (detail) by Ryo Arai - click to enlarge

You can tell I'm particularly enamored with Ryo Arai's papier-mâché yokai and I cannot wait to see his works in person. The images featured here are all from his Yokai Hariko series but from what I can see in the press release, only the top sculpture, Jorogumo, will be exhibited - together with other recent oeuvres by him.

The press release states very correctly:

"Utilizing techniques from Edo karakuri, transom sculpture, netsuke and noh theatre mask making, his transcendent techniques makes it hard for the viewer to believe that his work is actually made out of paper."

Oh, and did I mention ICN also has a café specializing in Japanese tea?! Details below.

Mouryou (detail) by Ryo Arai - click to enlarge

On show: Oct 27 - Nov 19, 2011

WurzelForum discussion

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