A Look Inside NANZUKA’s "2G" Studio in Tokyo

Located inside the new multifaceted Shibuya PARCO space in Tokyo is NANZUKA’s “2G” studio designed by Snarkitecture. For its inaugural presentation, the Japanese art dealer is currently displaying collaborative artworks made between Daniel Arsham and Hajime Sorayama.

One of the most notable pieces on display is a figurative sculpture featuring Sorayama’s female robot arm combined with Arsham’s eroded crystal arm. “Two years ago Sorayama-san presented me with a drawing he made of this idea. It took the last two years to realize this work,” said the NYC-based artist in a statement.

We recently sat down with Daniel Arsham and Hajime Sorayama to learn more about their new collaborative works and longtime friendship. Check out some key excerpts from the discussion below. The Arsham x Sorayama collaborative artworks are on view at the “2G” studio until January 8.

“For some artists, this concept, close to the commercial one, could be a problem.”

Do you remember the first time you saw each other’s work? Describe the moment.
Daniel Arsham:  I first saw Mr. Sorayama’s work when I visited Brian’s [KAWS] studio more than 10 years ago. When I opened the cabinet, there were many works, and the one that caught my eyes was Mr. Sorayama’s work.

Hajime Sorayama: When I glanced at his work, I was impressed with space archeology. The work with the motif of the moon’s crater had the greatest impact.

What are your thoughts on the collaborative concept behind this multifaceted space?

DA: For some artists, this concept, close to the commercial one, could be a problem. But I have always been creating between fashion and art. That’s why I started collaborating with brands like Dior and adidas early in my career. There is no need for people to go to the gallery in daily life. However, there is a world where only those who come here can experience and experience. If you don’t go to the gallery, you may never find such a place.

HS: I don’t deny Daniel’s opinion, but I can think of it as a form of collaboration that is very close to everyday life. Even if you do not bother to come to such a place, people wear clothes, wear shoes, art exists every day, and lives in the designed space. In the first place, there is no genre division from the beginning, and the existing genres may only be sorted out from the viewpoint of monetization. Coincidentally, “2G” has an inspiration similar to the work that connects the hands that symbolize this exhibition. It is absolutely impossible in the real world for gypsum and stainless steel to stick together. Those who notice this may be surprised to see the work.

“2G” Studio
Shibuya PARCO
15-1 Udagawacho, Shibuya City, 2/F
Tokyo 150-8377, Japan
10 a.m. – 11 p.m. JST

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