TARTAROS solo of exhibition「Variation」
Time:2024-07-06—2024-07-31
Address:Contemporary Tokyo
Contemporary Tokyo will hold a solo exhibition "Variation" by TARTAROS from July 6th to July 31st.
TARTAROS has focused on the structure of ukiyo-e, where numerous variations are created from woodblocks. The elements of change and variation, common to ukiyo-e and banknotes, are important aspects of TARTAROS's works. In recent years, TARTAROS has been exploring the world of his works more deeply by simultaneously creating multiple pieces with the same composition. In this solo exhibition, new works of ukiyo-e, banknotes, and paintings will be displayed under the theme "variation."
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「The name "TARTAROS" derives from the Greek mythological god of the underworld. Tartaros represents the abyss—the deepest part of the underworld where people go after death, a bottomless chaos. Naturally, there are no modern boundaries or arbitrary lines defining regions like Europe or Asia in this abyss. This deliberate naming suggests TARTAROS's drive to transcend and renew modernity and modern art. His fascination with Okinawa as his current base seems connected to the region's unique stance against modern Japan since the Ryukyu Disposition.
TARTAROS boldly positions his work as "21st-century icon art," and the reason becomes clear when examining his pieces. Early works like "Cheers to the Earth: Shuten Doji vs. Banknote Samurai" (2017) mix diverse elements from religious paintings, ukiyo-e, and manga across cultures and eras, creating a "chaos." His works transcend and disrupt the high and low culture divide, visualizing the diverse "icons" of modern times—science, celebrities, characters, cyberspace, and idealized lifestyles.
Among the countless modern icons, the most influential is money. The ongoing creation of series using banknotes in this exhibition highlights this nature of money. TARTAROS has chosen motifs like Hokusai's "Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji" and "One Hundred Views of Mount Fuji," using yen and dollar bills. Additionally, various materials like gold leaf, acrylic, and urethane come together in his works. His rich experience across various professions, from CG designer to figure sculptor and product developer, is evident.
As a contemporary artist, TARTAROS is establishing a unique "outsider" position. This exhibition is just a milestone in his uncharted journey. He mentioned plans to appropriate ukiyo-e by artists like Sharaku and Kuniyoshi next. Through our online interview, I felt his ideas are like a never-ending fountain. I eagerly anticipate the visions TARTAROS will present to viewers through his art, reflecting our 21st-century world.」
Cultural Researcher,
Hiroki Yamamoto