Minami Yoshida
A World Where We Emerge
Opening Reception
Saturday, March 16th, 5-7PM
My Dear
My Dear
Where do we come from
I wear a nose
You too
I wear a mouth
You too
I have two eyes
You too
I wear skin over amber
You too
We are too different
We are too similar
But we are here
may we walk together
Minami Yoshida (b. 1993) is a Japanese artist focused on sculpture and the human form. Born in Sapporo, Japan, she grew up with a penchant for art and a talent for creativity. She channels a distinctive style informed by the ancient Jomon Period and the vibrant contemporary culture of Japan. Her sculptures, reminiscent of the clay figures from the Jomon era, are characterized by their charming simplicity, evoking a sense of quiet solitude infused with inner beauty and spiritual depth.
During her childhood marked by frequent illness, Yoshida found solace in introspection, spending much of her time alone crafting drawings and artworks. Raised in northern Japan, she developed an affinity for mascots and anime characters, which provided her with comfort and inspiration. These early encounters with popular culture would later shape her artistic sensibilities. She loved creating art both in school and in her free time, and became more and more focused on her artistry as her focus of study.
Inspired by the natural forms and beauty of Jomon clay figures, Yoshida embarked on a journey to explore the essence of life and creativity. Her relocation to Tokyo for studies further fueled her artistic pursuits, prompting a rediscovery of the intrinsic connection between clay and childhood memories. This profound reawakening motivated her to create sculptures that echo the timeless essence of existence.
In 2009, at age 16, she had her first solo exhibition in Sapporo, and she has since shown her artwork all over Japan. In 2012 she began her undergraduate study at Tokyo Zokei University, graduating in 2016 with a degree in fine art with a focus on sculpture. She lives and works now in Niseko Hokkaido, Japan.
One of Yoshida's recent works, "Kimono Girl," exemplifies her fusion of contemporary aesthetics with ancient symbolism. Through delicate integration of kimono and body parts, she imbues her creations with a transcendent presence, reminiscent of the innocence and benevolence embodied by Jomon clay dolls.
Yoshida's artistic vision serves as a bridge between Japan's rich cultural heritage and its modern manifestations. Her works captivate audiences, transcending temporal and spatial boundaries, while her dedication to sculpting rustic beauty continues to resonate with diverse viewers.
