Nowfu Gendai
One of my very favorite galleries is in Gifu — “Nowfu Gendai.” It sits close to the foot of Mount Kinka, surrounded by abundant greenery where the clear, fresh air feels wonderful.
The first time I visited, I had wrapped up a stressful job in Tokyo and let myself settle into this place.
https://art-on.jp/nowfu-gendai-gifu/
Here is a place where you can encounter art in such a natural, unforced way that it feels as though you have transcended time and space.
When I visited in April 2018, a solo exhibition by Yoshiko Shinohara was being held.
https://art-on.jp/yoshiko-shinohara-2018/
They were small pieces, but works by Yukimasa Ida were casually on display and available for purchase.
A work by Aika Natsu — charming, and an elaborate three-dimensional piece made with layer upon layer of lacquer!
The gallery’s owner rearranges the placement of the works, showing you how a piece changes depending on your viewpoint and on the combinations around it.
I forgot to photograph Yuriko Matsuda’s work… (I later bought an art book of hers).
It is also lovely that you can view the works while sipping coffee at the counter. You can spend a relaxed time chatting about art with the gallery’s owner. Highly recommended!
