In late June, Hong Kong-based art gallery THE SHOPHOUSE officially opened its new otherthings space on Sun Chun Street.
Converted from a 19th-century Hakka building, otherthings by THE SHOPHOUSE in Hong Kong presented its first exhibition, a fresh and intimate solo show by Japanese contemporary artist Kansai Noguchi.
Under the title EX TERRA, the exhibition brings together Noguchi’s relatively recent series, “JOMON Yakishime”, as well as a new set of ceramic works called “APOLLO”. Both series stem from the artist’s fascination with ancient times.
The idea behind “APOLLO” arose from Noguchi’s desire to create pieces that reminded him of rough lunar surfaces, walls with peeling paint, and objects that show signs of wear.
The name of the series is inspired not only by Apollo, the Greek god of the sun, but specifically by the legend in which he carried the sun to Earth in a golden chariot.
“I wanted to get away from the clean, perfect aesthetic of machine-made manufacturing,” Noguchi comments, adding, “I made this new series using a manual pottery wheel instead of an electric one, just to achieve a more rustic and handmade look and feel.”
In comparison, the “JOMON Yakishime” series is inspired by ancient Japanese Jomon ceramics (c. 14,000 – 300 BC). Similarly, Noguchi was drawn to the raw and expressive forms of the ceramics, which he combined with his signature ink work, creating a distinctive neoclassical aesthetic.
Noguchi’s love for the rustic is not only evident in his ceramic works, but also extends to his home, which is currently under renovation.
He explains that he specifically hired construction workers specializing in old-style Japanese homes to match his vision for his new house, which will include a workspace and exhibition space for his artwork.
The newly opened otherthings space is perfect for Noguchi. From “JOMON Yakishime” to “APOLLO”, both sets of works are in perfect harmony with the exhibition venue.
Original elements such as the main door, skylight and wooden staircase were kept as faithful to their original state as possible. Now, with subtle modern renovations, the historic Sun Chun Street address exudes an air of neoclassicism that evokes the work of Kansai Noguchi.
The organizers of otherthings promote it as an ever-evolving atelier “guided by the enduring influence and collaborative spirit of its network of friends, designers, artists and artisans”.
This spirit permeates the newly opened space. Throughout the venue, one can appreciate various works by artists such as Steve Harrison, Bobby Mills, Joy BC, Dirty Teddy Gallery and Masaya Kushino.
Kansai Noguchi’s EX TERRA exhibition is currently on display at otherthings by THE SHOPHOUSE until July 28, 2024. The pieces are available for viewing and purchase through the otherthings official website.
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