Cuteness and Craftsmanship: POKÉMON × KOGEI Exhibition in Tokyo

POKÉMON × KOGEI: Featuring Pokémon Artworks Utilizing Japanese Crafts

Taiichiro Yoshida: "Eevee," "Jolteon," and "Flareon"
The POKÉMON × KOGEI Exhibition was first held from March to June 2023 at the National Crafts Museum (Ishikawa Prefecture), showcasing approximately 70 unique artworks that challenge the image of Pokémon using diverse craft materials and techniques, born from inspiration and enjoyment.

Following its initial run, these works toured various locations in the United States and Japan, and finally, they will return to Tokyo in November 2024 to be exhibited at the Azabudai Hills Gallery.

The upgraded POKÉMON × KOGEI Exhibition will feature additional works from several artists, with the total number of exhibits expected to reach around 80 pieces.

The exhibition will also feature lectures and workshops. Additionally, a collaborative café themed around the craft exhibition will be opened for the first time at the Azabudai Hills Gallery café.

There will also be a merchandise area offering original items from the exhibition, including mugs, plush toys, eco bags, keychains, and handkerchiefs.

Exhibition Highlights

1. Clever Presentation of Characters

Taiichiro Yoshida: "Eevee," "Jolteon," and "Flareon"
The techniques of craftsmanship bring Pokémon to life from unexpected materials.

Each artist's research into materials like metal, earth, and wood, along with years of refined skills, cleverly presents the forms, textures, fur, movements, and expressions of Pokémon, capturing the essence of their existence.

2. Immersed in Storylines

Picture courtesy of Eichi Shiroma: "Ryukyu Bingata Kimono 'Shima Tsunagi'," and Yasuyoshi Komiya: "Edo Komon Fabric 'Gengar & Gastly'"
Craftworks challenge the worldview of Pokémon, creating elements of cultivation, evolution, and exchange, as well as the friendships formed with travel companions and the breathtaking anticipation of skill impacts.

The artists, equipped with craft materials and techniques, freely gallop in a world of imagination.

3. Cherishing the Present Moment

Picture courtesy of Eichi Shiroma: "Charmander / Shigaraki Pot," "Charizard / Shigaraki Pot," "Vulpix / Shigaraki Pot," "Moltres / Shigaraki Pot", "Ninetales / Shigaraki Pot"
Craftsmanship enhances various scenes in life, adding vibrancy to our daily experiences.

The artists use Pokémon to challenge the functionality and values of craft items, incorporating Pokémon elements into tableware, kimonos, and decorations, enriching our love and appreciation for life.

Collaborative Café

The POKÉMON × KOGEI Exhibition features a collaborative café called POKÉMON × KOGEI Exhibition Café, offering a special menu inspired by the exhibited works.

The menu includes gourmet French sandwiches, Pikachu pancake ice cream sundaes, and semi-matcha lattes, among other items.

Event Overview

Exhibition Period

November 1, 2024 (Friday) – February 2, 2025 (Sunday)

- First Phase: November 1, 2024 (Friday) – December 25, 2024 (Wednesday)
- Second Phase: December 26, 2024 (Thursday) – February 2, 2025 (Sunday)
*Closed on December 31, 2024 (Tuesday)
*Works will be replaced between the first and second phases.

Venue

Azabudai Hills Gallery
Address: Tokyo, Minato, Toranomon 5-8-1 Azabudai Hills Garden Plaza A, MB Floor

Opening Hours

Monday / Tuesday / Wednesday / Thursday / Sunday: 10:00 - 19:00 (Last admission at 18:30)
Friday / Saturday / Day before national holidays: 10:00 - 20:00 (Last admission at 19:30)

Official Website

Tokyo Venue Official Website: https://www.azabudai-hills.com/azabudaihillsgallery/sp/kogei-pokemon-ex/en/

Main picture: Imai Sadamasa "Venusaur," "Kingler," "Arbok,"
All pictures courtesy of ©2024 Pokémon. ©1995-2024 Nintendo/Creatures Inc. /GAME FREAK inc.