We are pleased to announce the successful opening of Ryo Abe’s solo exhibition.
Despite being in his 30s, Mr. Abe is a rising artist who has already been selected for numerous public exhibitions, including the prestigious Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition.
Originally from Kanagawa Prefecture, Mr. Abe's passion for dyeing began during a family trip to Okinawa in his youth, where he encountered Bingata dyeing. Upon returning home, he embarked on a journey of self-study in stencil dyeing, known as Kataezome.
After learning from a renowned stencil dyeing artist in Kanagawa, Mr. Abe pursued further training in Okinawa, completing both the Bingata Association's Successor Development Program and Okinawa Prefecture’s Advanced Craftsperson Training Program. He eventually became independent and studied Bingata techniques and philosophies under Master Syoutarou Kinjyo. As a result, his work uniquely combines elements from both Kataezome and Bingata traditions.
Mr. Abe’s designs are intricate, yet they are inspired by joyful childhood memories. As a boy, he loved nature, especially spending time in forests. His work often reflects nostalgic childhood scenes, such as insect collecting and flower picking—memories that many of us share. His goal is to create pieces that evoke happiness in those who wear or view them. His works are highly narrative, with titles such as "The Path with Ripening Ryukyu Raspberries," "Blessings of the Forest," "View from the Country Road," and "A Path Called by the Spring Breeze."
Although he initially studied architecture in university, Mr. Abe’s drawing skills from his architectural studies are reflected in his current meticulous designs. After sketching the initial designs, he carves them into stencils with handmade knives in a single motion, and then dyes them using pigments and dyes.
Mr. Abe’s work, with its delicate lines and gentle color palette, offers a softer expression compared to the traditionally vivid hues of Bingata dyeing. His pieces convey light and evoke a bright, uplifting atmosphere, leaving viewers with a sense of joy and serenity.
During the exhibition, Mr. Abe graciously held a gallery talk, explaining his creative process, which drew a large audience. In addition to kimono and obi, his tapestries were particularly popular. We are also accepting custom orders for his pieces—please feel free to contact Gallery Rin for inquiries.
Mr. Abe's next solo exhibition is scheduled for September next year.
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