David Bowie Comes Back to Life Through Ukiyo-e! 3rd Installment of Ukiyo-e Project to Be Held at Bookmarc in Shibuya

From June 23, 2018 to July 1, 2018, the third installment of Ukiyo-e Project will be held in Shibuya, Tokyo, at a bookstore managed by the New York fashion brand, Marc Jacobs, called "Bookmarc". This time, the exhibition will center around works paying homage to David Bowie, and will be a collaboration of ukiyo-e (woodblock prints) and photographs!

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David Bowie Comes Back to Life Through Ukiyo-e!

This ukiyo-e is based on a commonly-used theme of the sorcerer, Kidomaru, controling a serpent. It is combined with Bowie, who exudes a delicate and progressive charm.

Besides this, there are a number of other ukiyo-e on display. They are available for purchase, although numbers are limited.

What is the Ukiyo-e Project?

The word "ukiyo" in ukiyo-e actually has the meaning of "now" or "the present", and they usually depicted subjects such as popular beauties and kabuki actors of those days, as well as landscapes of popular spots at the time, like Tokaido. The Ukiyo-e Project aims to convey and pass on the ukiyo-e legacy by showing stars of the modern era in traditional woodblock print.

The first installment of this popular project featured the legendary rock band Kiss, while the second focused on British heavy metal band, Iron Maiden.

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What is Ukiyo-e?

Ukiyo-e is a Japanese traditional craft that originated in the early to mid Edo period (mid 1600s to mid 1700s). In short, they are multi-colored woodblock prints. Themes depicted were cultural aspects of the time, such as beautiful women, kabuki actors, sumo wrestlers, and famous landscapes. Through ukiyo-e, the people in the Edo era were able to find out about the latest news, fashion, travel, and other information. The unique techniques involved in making such paintings have been around for more than 300 years. It's a cultural heritage of Japan that's truly one-of-a-kind. You won't be able to find anything similar elsewhere in the world!

Ukiyo-e Project Presents David Bowie Ukiyo-e Exhibition Featuring the Works of Terry O'Neill and Brian Duffy

Kanto Feature

The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.

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