Being

Questioning "Being" in New York in the Age of AI

A Group Exhibition by Four Emerging Japanese Artists at Gallery 60 NYC

In an era where AI continuously and rapidly transforms society, this exhibition establishes a philosophical sanc-

tuary in New York to re-examine the core of "Being"̶what it truly means to exist and live as a human. Driven

by the fundamental question, "What does it mean to live?", the artists engage in dialogue with people from

diverse backgrounds to contemplate our collective future.

By unearthing the emotions and imagination born from genuine human connection, this exhibition seeks to

spark new perspectives. Set against the backdrop of New York̶a multinational metropolis where diverse

cultures and thoughts intersect̶the exhibition embraces this multi-layered complexity as a source of creation,

exploring ways for humans to truly live as humans, transcending nationalities and borders.

Exhibition Highlights

1. The Trajectory of "Being" Traced by Four Melodies ̶ Subtitle: "巡 Meguru, 瞬 Shun, 知 Chi, 伝 Den"

(Calligraphy for Title & Subtitle by Ayano Todaka)

Named after the musical term for multi-voiced harmony, the artist collective "Polyphony" features four artists

from distinct backgrounds who bring their philosophical visions into resonance. Centered on the shared theme

of "Being," the exhibition orchestrates their unique creative styles into a narrative arc of Kisho-tenketsu (the

traditional four-part storytelling structure).

The journey begins with Koshiyama, whose work revolves around the "circulation" (Meguru) of life. It moves to

Yamaguchi, who captures the fleeting "Moment" (Shun) of existence. Next is Ochiai, who presents the "wisdom

and knowledge" (Chi) essential to living. The circle is completed by Todaka, whose practice focuses on "trans-

mitting" (Den) and preserving the enduring techniques and culture cultivated by humanity. While each melody

exists independently, they harmonize within the same space, unveiling the profound depth of the grand theme

of "Being." The exhibition will feature approximately 85 artworks of various sizes, utilizing diverse techniques

such as Japanese painting (Nihonga), calligraphy, pastels, acrylics, and mixed media.

2. Monumental Masterpieces: Expressions on a Shared Medium of "Non-Woven Fabric"

The exhibition showcases large-scale two-dimensional works measuring 13 in × 138 in, each created on a

shared medium of non-woven fabric based on the artists' respective subtitles. Stretching horizontally, this

format offers an unprecedented visual form. Evoking the experience of tracing a story through a traditional

Japanese handscroll (Emakimono) or gazing at a sweeping panoramic landscape, it promises a viewing experi-

ence unique to this exhibition.

3. A Live Paint of Resonating Melodies and the Gift of Circulating Life

During the exhibition, the four artists will conduct a live paint on the gallery floor, layering their respective

expressions onto circular paper coasters arranged in a ring. Koshiyama (Meguru) lays down the colors of the

four seasons. Ochiai (Wisdom), utilizing the traditional technique of Kirikane (gold leaf decoration)̶developed

by ancestors as a wisdom to reflect dim candlelight and illuminate spaces̶connects paper-craft butterflies

(created by Yamaguchi as symbols of transformation and rebirth) with fine gold threads and places them in the

circle. Yamaguchi (Shun) then unleashes a "spark of life" across the space through dripping techniques. Finally,

Todaka (Den) connects the message of "Being" (Ikiru) to the next generation through live calligraphy.

Furthermore, visitors are invited to write their own reflections on the question, "What does living mean to you?"

onto the butterflies (or coasters). These independent thoughts and visitor voices will resonate together within

the circle, beautifully completing a singular, unified cycle as a true "Polyphony."

Upon completion, the installation will be moved to the gallery windows during the opening reception, and

individual pieces will be gifted to visitors (limited quantity). Handed out alongside tea grown by Koshiyama

(packaged in the exhibition's original artwork), these "fragments of life" will be carried back into the daily lives

of the audience, taking flight to weave the next chapter of their stories in new lands.