Hybrid of sorts/ Hybrid of thoughts

Yamamoto Keiko Rochaix

23 November - 12 November

Yamamoto Keiko Rochaix is pleased to announce a solo exhibition of Nao Matsunaga. The galley’s first collaboration with the reputed ceramicist will unveil to the UK viewers his expanded language combining his ceramic works and paintings.

A good part of the exhibition will be comprised of the works created during his two major residencies in 2021, namely the residency for The 29th International Symposium of Ceramics Bechyně, Czech Republic, and another at Launch Pad LaB, at La Boissière, France.

Circular ceramic relief works have neutral white base with colourful glaze splashes created in the kiln. Bright and pure colours have also made it into the painting, so energetic that they almost overflow the surface of paper and canvas.

These works were created after a long period of hiatus from ceramic making practice due to the lockdowns related to the pandemic. Despite initial fear of handling clay and making ceramics for the first time in 18 months, for the artist it turned out to be a joyous occasion of reunion, of self confirmation of his love of ceramic making. The bright colours and sense of release which the works convey are testaments to such upbeat feelings.

For Matsunaga, his works are expressions of nature and/or the subconscious: What dictates is instinct but not logic, artifice or planning. He considers himself as a sort of agent; a receptacle of nature, and he aspires to turn the spirit/essence of what surrounds him into objects with a physical presence. He regards the sense of oneness for work and himself, or work with the larger world, is a seal of approval for each work.