For a limited time this June, Shibuya's Miyashita Park is hosting an exhibition of Takahiro Koga's ceramic works titled "Anti Wabi-Sabi". The characteristics of wabi-sabi lean towards simplicity and austerity, and Koga's creations are anything but -- his ceramic pieces are covered in gold and adorned with studs, coming across as brash, bold, and unique.
Part of the exhibition's focus is on the idea that adversity often creates counter viewpoints to traditional culture. The world is still reeling from the adversity caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, and Koga's creativity has been inspired in part by this.
For those who plan to visit, do note that the hours for the first two days of the exhibition are only from 4 pm until 8 pm. For the remainder of the event, the hours are from 12 pm until 8 pm.
The artist is clever, bringing attention to tradition by countering it.