Japanese artist, Izumi Kato and Fundación Casa Wabi are pleased to announce the winners for our first IZUMI KATO PRICE:
Kaai Ogaya
Kyoto, 1987
An artist from Kyoto, Japan and based in Tokyo, explores themes of Reclaiming Human Dignity lost to societal forces. Through her project-based installations, she invites viewers to reflect on marginalized narratives, utilizing storytelling and highlighting the significance of diverse perspectives with unconventional materials and techniques in her artistic practice.
Fumiaki Akahane
Nagano, 1984
Lives and works in Nagano, Japan. Akahane creates paintings and sculptures on the theme of the cycle of humans and materials. His works, which have a unique materiality, aim to restore the fundamental connection between the world and humans.
This prize was established with Kato’s hope that Japanese artists under 40 in all genres such as fine art, design, music etc. would experience the residency program at Fundación Casa Wabi.
This year’s judges were Mizuki Takahashi, Executive Director and Chief Curator of Centre for Heritage, Arts and Textile, and Dakin Hart, Artistic Director of Fundación Casa Wabi.
