"Akira Yamaguchi: Stepping Forward, Looking Down" will be held at the Contemporary Art Gallery of Art Tower Mito from February 21st to May 17th. Yamaguchi Akira is a painter who has garnered attention for his unique artistic vision, such as depicting samurai warriors riding horse-shaped motorcycles. In 2013, he won the Kobayashi Hideo Prize for his work "Strange Japanese Art History." His canvases are imbued with a critical spirit toward art and history, and his style is reminiscent of Yamato-e and ukiyo-e. Renowned for his meticulous attention to detail, he has produced numerous bird's-eye views of cities, such as his "Tokio Sansui" series, and battle scenes. This exhibition will feature his masterpiece "Zoku Muzannosuke" (Continuation of Muzannosuke), displayed in a 50-meter-wide exhibition room, and his signature work "Unforgettable Electric Pole," presented in a different format than when it was first unveiled. Each room, connected by a path-like corridor, opens up a different world of Yamaguchi's work, leading to a new installation.
Talk events by Yamaguchi are scheduled to be held on March 21st and April 19th. Additionally, on May 2nd there will be a "Drawing Dojo" where Yamaguchi will create paintings on the spot based on themes proposed by visitors to the venue. Additionally, on weekends from March 7th to May 17th, gallery talks will be held by local volunteers.

[Event Information]
Yamaguchi Akira Exhibition: Stepping Forward, Looking Down
Venue: Art Tower Mito, Contemporary Art Gallery
Address: 1-6-8 Gokencho, Mito City, Ibaraki Prefecture
Dates: February 21st to May 17th
Hours: 9:30am to 6:00pm (last entry 30 minutes before closing)
Closed: Mondays (open on May 4th)
Admission: 800 yen for adults (free for junior high school students and younger and those 65 and older)