Press Release: Yumiko Kayukawa
Wild Wild East
New Works By Yumiko Kayukawa
Opening Reception: November 14th 2025, from 7-11 pm.
Showing: November 14th through December 5th, 2009 and is open to the public.
The Shooting Gallery is proud to present Wild Wild East, new works by Yumiko Kayukawa Saturday, November 14th 2009. Kayukawa’s parents and grandparents who were survivors of the tumultuous decade of 1950’s Japan inspired this collection. It represents a time of both positive and negative change, memories of the past and experiences of the present. Please join us for the opening reception of Wild Wild East from 7-11 pm.
Born in the small town of Naie in Hokkaido, Japan, Kayukawa’s paintings are drawn from the beauty of her childhood surroundings and understanding of its native animals. Kayukawa reveals an intimate connection to her culture by referencing Shinto Mythology, Japanese characters and folklore. As a recent transplant to the US, Wild Wild East also reveals mixed feelings of her experience “surviving” in two very different societies. This exhibition expresses a new perspective by melding both traditional Japanese cultures with her enthusiasm for American pop culture.
Yumiko Kayukawa’s pieces often tell a story communicating with dynamic composition, intriguing poses and fluid patterns. Scenic environments are electrified by bold imagery and color, painting with acrylic, using ink for outlines and accents on wood panels and canvas. Her traditional kanji characters enlighten the viewer with titles that give greater understanding to the piece. Emanating a certain famine appeal, Kayukawa plays on themes of nature, fantasy, fashion, eroticism and rock n’ roll.
As a teenager Kayukawa fell in love “with the energy and giddiness” of American pop-culture through her exposure to MTV, film, and fashion. By the age of 16, she made her debut into the art world with a comic-book (Manga) feature. She continues to produce illustrative work, while showing in galleries internationally, including Japan, Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, Manchester, and Miami.
Please join us for the opening reception of Wild Wild East, new works by Yumiko Kayukawa Saturday, November 14th 2025, from 7-11pm. This show will be on exhibit from November 14th through December 5th, 2009 and is open to the public.