Takesada Matsutani 'A Matrix'

The current exhibition at Hauser&Wirth gallery in London showcases an excellent selection of Takesada Matsutani’s works both old and new, familiar and never before seen.

His works, a part of the new wave of Japanese avant garde art, use contrasting textures and layers of colour to create depth even in monotone pieces such as Work 65-B-1.

This particular piece makes use of polyvinyl acetate adhesive, acrylic and oil; a diverse choice of materials which creates a layered effect that draws the viewer in to look past what is immediately visible to the emotion behind the work. In this way, Matsutani expresses his opinions and emotions – hinting at his, and other avant garde artists’, attempt to challenge Japanese traditions and perceptions of art.

However, Matsutani does not shun his roots. Working in the early 60s to 70s as part of Japan’s influential post-war art collective, his works put the post-war ethos into his own artistic style which shines through alongside his Japanese origins and style with his choice of colour and material in works such as Work 64-A and Stream, Hauser&Wirth, London.

These pieces combine his evident desire for Japan to modernise incorporating western influences but whilst maintaining the identity of traditional Japan with its unique customs. The contrasting ideals mix to create fantastic works that question who we are and what we should do in the world.

The exhibition will continue until 27 July and should not be missed.

Hauser&Wirth Takesada Matsutani: A Matrix

Text by Alice Kehoe, Weald of Kent Grammar School