We are pleased to announce that i GALLERY OSAKA will be hosting　Hiroyasu Shimo's first solo exhibition in Osaka, titled "The[B]Store."

 

The [Benten-sha Book Fair] held in Gifu and Tokyo in 2023 was highly acclaimed by many and saw such popularity that there were long lines on the final day. Building on that success, this exhibition has evolved even further.

 

In 2024, this exhibition will be held in our gallery, located in one of Japan's most prominent shopping districts. It will feature new works that generated a significant buzz on social media, such as [Benten-sama], as well as 240 types of [Mikan Bunko]. This event transcends the traditional boundaries of a book fair, adopting a new format under the name "The[B]Store."

 

All the exhibited works are by Hiroyasu Shimo, filling the venue with anti-authenticity pieces created in collaboration with AI. Visitors will not only enjoy new discoveries and pleasures but also have the opportunity to discuss future perspectives and changing values. Hiroyasu Shimo himself will be present throughout the event, looking forward to engaging directly with visitors.

”Exhibition by Fictional Publishing House "Bentensya"

 

Named "Bentensya Book Fair" in 2023, this year's exhibition will be held under the guise of a store due to the expansion of business categories.

 

Basic concepts

(1) Provide a bird's-eye view of contemporary society

(2) Think of the exhibition as a "park" and the artworks as "playground equipment"

These concepts are rooted in the desire to positively pass on a "sense of coexistence," the very essence of Japanese culture.”

 

-HIROYASU SHIMO