Flower artist TAKAYA's first photo exhibition, "MEN," is being held at Gallery Le Bain in Roppongi, Tokyo, from June 24th to 29th. His artistic and energetic work has been featured in numerous media outlets both in Japan and abroad, garnering rave reviews. The opening reception on the first day drew a diverse audience of people of all genders, ages, and nationalities, eager to catch a glimpse of TAKAYA's work.

A total of 31 photographs are on display in the gallery. Approximately 10 large-scale works line the walls in an L-shape, with a framed photo on the wall to the right of the entrance and two on the wall to the left. Furthermore, five more are placed near the center and 12 more by the windows, maximizing the space with hanging works.

"MEN" features men wearing headdresses of flowers and plants. The charming yet wild, organically curved forms of nature are reminiscent of the curvaceous beauty of the human body. Each photograph captures a beauty filled with refreshing vitality. The same day, Takaya himself also performed a live performance. A model with leaves tied around her head quietly appeared, followed by a live performance of Gaspar Casado's "Suite unaccompanied des Cellos," and then Takaya appeared with a bouquet. After handing the bouquet to the model, Takaya selected a single flower from the bouquet and, using the already tied leaves as a base, began tying fresh flowers one after another to create a shape. It seemed as if he could already see the finished product, as he chose the flowers with unwavering determination. The audience held their breath and silently watched the fate of the flowers in his hands. Takaya explained, "I wanted to use a variety of flowers this time," and various colorful flowers, including dahlias, his favorite, were transformed into vibrant headdresses. Fashion designer Yumi Katsura was also in attendance. Katsura, who collaborates with TAKAYA on shows and events, said, "Not everyone has artistic sensibility. I believe it's a form of art, so I want to collaborate with people who share that. For example, this turban was made for 25 years by Akio Hirata (a hat designer) who recently passed away, but not just anyone can make it. That's why it exists. I collaborate with TAKAYA because it's TAKAYA, but it's not like I'd just do any flower designer. He truly has something special. I really want to work with people like that." By collaborating with him, she is inspired by his sensibility, and their resonance can lead to the creation of something new. "Everyone has their own way of expression. I really want to work with people who share that sensibility." She also mentioned that one of her favorite photos from this exhibition is one of her wearing a headpiece decorated with Asebi flowers. This is TAKAYA's first solo exhibition, but when asked about her next project, her words are incredibly powerful. "I would like to do more overseas. This was my first solo exhibition, and a lot of people came, so I think it was a success. Next time, I'd like to perform a performance show overseas, or do something in France."

This is a fascinating exhibition that gives a renewed sense of the unique beauty of flower shapes, human shapes, and the individuality of things.


[Event Information]
Flower Arranger TAKAYA Photo Exhibition "MEN"
Venue: Gallery Le Bain
Address: 3-16-28 Nishiazabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Dates: June 24th to 29th
Time: 11:00 to 19:00 (until 16:00 on the last day)
Free admission