Exhibition Catalogue | English | Category: Painting
This catalogue was published on the occasion of the exhibition Mythologiques by Tomokazu Matsuyama, held between 20 April to 20 November 2024, curated by Christoph Doswald for the Contemporary Istanbul Foundation as a simultaneous event with the 60th International Art Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia. Drawing on historical milestones and the holistic view of our interconnected world and inspired by Claude Lévi-Strauss, Mythologiques delves into the construction of individual identity amidst an age of ubiquitous images, values, and information. Matsuyama’s reflections on global interdependencies and cultural tensions, as well as his unique perspective on migration and cultural fusion, form the exhibition’s backbone.
Bridging his heritage between Japan and the USA, Tomokazu Matsuyama distils a bicultural narrative into a vibrant oeuvre that navigates the complexities of a globalised society. His artistry unites disparate cultural symbols into a new, universal reality, echoing the dynamism of contemporary life. Behind his visually arresting works is a profound exploration of the tension between local familiarity and global universality. Sharing the same title as the exhibition, the catalogue reflects the artist’s deep investigation of the interconnectedness of our global society, challenging our perceptions of identity and cultural belonging. Published by Vienna-based VfmK Verlag für moderne Kunst GmbH with the distinctive design of Karin Holzfeind, the book is enriched by the preface written by Ali Güreli, chairperson and founder of Contemporary Istanbul Foundation, the interview of Berrak Göçer with the artist, and the essay of the curator Christoph Doswald.
