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Special Exhibition Showcases Two Kaleidoscope Artists Creating Mystical Worldviews
Tomoo Hosono, who studied industrial and spatial design, creates the “Mirror Cruise” series – kaleidoscopes crafted from stainless steel pipe with a minimalist aesthetic. Using teleidoscopes that transform viewed scenery into patterns through mirrors, these pieces offer a world of unique geometric artistry to enjoy.
These streamlined, minimal kaleidoscopes also serve as attractive interior objects that add color to everyday life while harmonizing with room decor.
Meanwhile, Chitoshi Takabayashi crafts the “Towk” series of kaleidoscopes featuring wooden bodies. His works offer otherworldly experiences through designs that capture light from lamps and candles. Though both artists use oil kaleidoscopes, their contrasting expressive approaches create uniquely engaging pieces that spark curiosity in viewers.
During the exhibition period, the restaurant “Gastero” on the first floor of “Purveyors” will feature projected kaleidoscope patterns. This event offering an enchanting kaleidoscope experience – like peering into a treasure chest – runs from Saturday, December 21, 2024, to Sunday, January 5, 2025.
Tomoo Hosono | Mirror Cruise
Born in Gunma Prefecture, 1969.
1993: Graduated from Chiba University’s Department of Industrial Design. Worked as an in-house designer focusing on spatial design.
1997: Began creating kaleidoscopes.
1998-2001: Participated in art events nationwide as a kaleidoscope artist.
2001: Contributed to Kitaro concert video production. Created kaleidoscopes for Amami Park exhibition facilities.
2001-2002: Participated in ACCENT ON DESIGN (NY).
2015: Featured as one of Japan’s three greatest kaleidoscope artists on TV Asahi’s “Anger New Party.”
2018: Solo exhibition at +NOTION (Ginza).
2019-2021: Solo exhibitions at Dream Blue (Chiba).
Numerous other curated exhibitions.
Chitoshi Takabayashi | Towk
In 2007, traveled alone to America to study under kaleidoscope masters Randy and Shelly Knapp.
After returning to Japan and a period of reflection, began creating kaleidoscopes in 2009.
Consistently pursues expression in pure white, creating cloud-like glass objects whose layering and light effects produce depth, shadows, and dimensionality, giving internal images unique character.
Since 2021, has hosted “Weekend Acorns” events at his Yokohama atelier, inviting guests to enjoy kaleidoscopes under candlelight and incandescent bulbs while experiencing music and drinks, and presenting collaborative scopes with other artists.
Information
Mirror Cruise x Towk Kaleidoscope Duo Exhibition
DATE: December 21, 2024 (Sat) – January 5, 2025 (Sun)
PLACE: Purveyors Kiryu Store
2-11-4 Nakamachi, Kiryu City, Gunma Prefecture
TIME: 12:00-19:00 (Irregular holidays during New Year’s)
URL: https://note.com/purveyors/n/n78adfb2de70a
Admission
Free
Venue
Purveyors Kiryu Store
Address: Purveyors, 2-11-4 Nakamachi, Kiryu City, Gunma Prefecture 376-0035
Phone: 0277-32-3446
Located 1km west along the street from Kiryu Station North Exit, on the right side. 15-minute walk from station.
About Purveyors
Opened in March 2017 in Kiryu City, Gunma Prefecture, as a concept shop curating around the theme of bringing travel and fieldwork more into daily life.
The store name “Purveyors” reflects our hope that the products we select as procurement specialists during our travels will become essential to our customers.
We select items across categories including outdoor gear, apparel, and lifestyle products, all through our distinctive perspective rather than limiting ourselves to outdoor items alone.
In July 2022, we opened our second location, Purveyors Nasu Branch, at GOOD NEWS in Nasu, Tochigi Prefecture.
URL: http://purveyors2017.jp/
