Tomoko Nagai “Thousands of Finches”
I went to Tomoko Nagai’s first solo exhibition in Tokyo in two years.
The title is “Thousands of Finches.” There were many fantastical, gentle works—pieces combining various motifs, colorful landscapes, and more—and I was overwhelmed by the sheer number of works on display.
As you ride the escalator up at Roppongi Hills, you come across a signboard-like sign, and this piece is already sold.
The venue is the Roppongi Hills A/D Gallery (Roppongi Hills West Walk, 3F). The Doraemon exhibition and the Leandro Erlich exhibition were being held at the same time, so the place was bustling.
When you enter the venue, you’re surprised to find works packed in tightly, with plenty of brown tones. Beyond the works hung on the walls, I was a little startled by the many works casually placed on the floor.
Then again, there were also quite large, ambitious pieces, making you feel the breadth of the artist. The motifs, too, are varied.
The works make use of every possible space—both inside the canvas and outside the framed borders—delighting the viewer with bold, decisive expression.
One captivating work after another. It was the first half of the exhibition period, but about 70 percent already bore the red stickers marking them as sold.
There were all kinds of works, but they were all unified by Nagai’s worldview.
I looked at the price list, and the prices were relatively approachable, too. They would even make a welcome gift for a family with children.
My favorite piece is this one (photo below).
I was able to chat with the gallery staff, and they said that buyers are not limited to women.
I also caught a brief glimpse of the artist herself—a gentle-looking, lovely woman who seemed to have stepped right out of her paintings.
As I left the venue, the atmosphere of the gallery seemed to awaken a tender feeling within me, and I felt somehow very happy.
Next time there’s a show, I’d love to visit early and welcome one of her works home… that’s how I felt. Thank you very much.
