Contemporary Ukiyo-e Artist KOJIMAN Holds First Tokyo Solo Exhibition 'Gekoku Ukiyo' in Koenji

C.G.R. (Suginami Ward, Tokyo) will host the first Tokyo solo exhibition, 'Gekoku Ukiyo,' by contemporary ukiyo-e artist KOJIMAN, beginning June 6, 2026. This exhibition serves as the grand opening for the new cultural space, 'C.G.R. (Curated Glow Resonance),' established by Desiredline Inc.

Throughout the exhibition, the focus will be on the display and sale of KOJIMAN’s works, alongside collaborative pieces with embroidery artist SHISHUMANIA and civiatelier, as well as original exhibition merchandise. Furthermore, the exhibition will feature and offer for sale artwork created by participants of 'Dejirumi Sapporo Kita,' a Type-B continuous employment support facility where KOJIMAN assists with daily creative activities.

The 'Gekoku Ukiyo' Statement
Ukiyo-e was originally the 'pop culture' of its time. Its journey—absorbing Edo-era mass culture, enduring suppression by authorities, and ultimately transforming into an essential cultural form—parallels the history of rock, hip-hop, and street culture.

KOJIMAN serves as an entity that introduces a different timeline into consumerist culture. He believes that by placing the current atmosphere into the context of ukiyo-e, it becomes a record and a critique.

The exhibition title, 'Gekoku Ukiyo,' is a coined term blending 'Gekokujo' (the act of the low overthrowing the high) and 'Ukiyo' (the floating world). It is an attempt to throw back the spirit of rebellion inherent in the ukiyo-e style onto modern Tokyo, overwriting the world from the side of the era itself, rather than being overshadowed by authority.

Artist Profile: KOJIMAN
Born in 1983 in Sapporo, Hokkaido. A contemporary ukiyo-e artist.
Drawing from sensibilities shaped by rock culture, including Rancid, his work traverses street and pop culture from the early 90s, including hip-hop, tattoos, anime, and sports, all adapted through ukiyo-e techniques.

His diverse collaborations include artists like YELLOW BUCKS and RIZE. Recently recognized by domestic and international media, he has handled official merchandise production for the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters and ukiyo-e visuals for the anime 'Baki-Dou.'

Exhibition Highlights:
1. First Tokyo public viewing of new works and representative pieces symbolizing 'Gekoku Ukiyo.'
2. Live Tattoing: June 6th (Sat) and June 7th (Sun), featuring guest tattoo artist Katsumi.
3. SHISHUMANIA × KOJIMAN: June 20th (Sat) and June 21st (Sun), showcasing embroidery collaborations.
4. civiatelier × KOJIMAN Apparel: Exhibition of collaborative clothing items.
5. Art by Dejirumi Sapporo Kita: Simultaneous exhibition and sale of works by participants from the social welfare support facility where KOJIMAN provides creative guidance.