To commemorate its recent opening, the 1/1 32117 gallery in Jingumae is hosting French-Vietnamese artist Cyril Kongo for his first solo exhibition in Japan. Kongo’s foray into art began in Paris, when he started making graffiti as a 17 year old. Back then, Kongo was part of a larger community of street artists who were dismissed as mere vandals. Now, however, he is celebrated as an influential visionary whose work has attracted the attention of brands such as Hermès, Chanel and Richard Mille.
In addition to his latest murals and paintings, Kongo will be presenting three-dimensional pieces including an installation where volcanic rocks have been hand-carved into letters of the alphabet. 16 of the artworks on display are for sale, but potential buyers will need deep pockets to afford them – those alphabetical rocks alone are valued at roughly ¥8.3 million.
Note: this exhibition is free but those who wish to visit the gallery between November 14 and November 27 must make an appointment.