Arab News Japan

TOKYO: TATEHANA Noritaka, a young artist born in 1985, is showcasing his zany art at the Iwasaki residence in the Ueno district of Tokyo with an exhibition titled “Edo Tokyo Rethink,” which aims to bring together an internationally renowned artist in collaboration with companies and artisans involved in luxury craftsmanship.

The young artist graduated from the Tokyo University of the Arts and was inspired by the post-pop art of Jeff Koons. He is betting on reconnecting with the tradition of decorative art, screens, and collaborations with Tokyo upholsterers.

Noritaka previously collaborated with Lady Gaga on extremely tall shoes without heels, echoing the popular culture of Edo (the old name for Tokyo). Modern courtesans’ parade in a showier way than traditional geishas perched on their “Taka Getas,” traditional but very high wooden sandals specially designed for courtesans.

During the exhibition, the artist traverses the Edo and Meiji eras (roughly 1600 to 1900) by revisiting the different styles of decorative art, from decorated fans inspired by the floating world to tapestries of Western inspiration.

The exhibition is taking place at Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens from March 1 to 10.