Tokyo, Japan—The vibrant city of Tokyo is once again coming alive with winter entertainment events, showcasing its cultural diversity and festive spirit. Among the notable happenings this season is the art exhibition by the acclaimed artist Ooscar Oiwai, which opened its doors on December 21, 2023, at GINZA ATRIUM. This exhibition not only highlights Oiwai’s unique artistic vision but also serves as a platform for community interaction and celebration of art.
Accompanying the gallery opening, art historian Yuji Yamashita hosted a talk event on December 20, where he shared insights about Oiwai’s work. Attendees were treated to discussions surrounding the themes of Oiwai’s art, which often intertwine reality, fiction, and deep societal and environmental issues. The exhibition, titled "Light Shop," reflects Oiwai’s intent to express intangible yet pertinent human experiences, such as love and emotions. "I want to express things we can't see but are necessary for humans, such as love and emotions," Oiwai remarked, underscoring the exhibition's focus on abstract concepts.
Oiwai, born in São Paulo, Brazil, and having traveled his way through various cultural hubs including Tokyo and New York, is known for his vibrant color palette and unique visual narratives. At the opening event, Oiwai and Yamashita shared their longstanding friendship, reminiscing about how their relationship sprouted from their mutual interest in contemporary art.
On the same day, the KFC Hall & Rooms was the place to be for fans of the Venus cheerleading squad and the GIABBIT team. They hosted the "VENUS & GIABBIT Winter Stage," which drew approximately 550 fans for two thrilling performances. Dressed as Santa Claus, the members of Venus engaged with children through dance lessons, teaching them complex choreography to festive songs. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, especially during team competitions where various fun tasks challenged participants, adding to the joy of the season.
During the second part of the event, Venus performers showcased dances previously seen at the Tokyo Dome, igniting excitement among attendees. Key moments of the event included heartfelt farewells from graduating members, where Capitan Ruuna Ito expressed her gratitude: "Gaining experience from Venus will be my treasure moving forward." The squad’s new captain, Akiko Yahagi, also looked to the future, stating, "We want to lead the Giants to victory with our goal of ‘VENUS PRIDE.’”
This winter season is particularly special as it marks not just the celebrations of art and dance, but also transition points for artists and performers. Oowai is preparing to take his "Light Shop" concept to New York next year, indicating his ambitious plans for artistic connectivity. Meanwhile, the poignant farewell at the Venus event emphasized the communal bonds formed through shared experiences and performances over the years, leaving a lasting impression on both departing members and their supporters.
Reflecting on the importance of these winter entertainment events, Oiwai’s exhibition and the Venus festivities not only provide entertainment but also enrich the community culturally. They act as reminders of the values of support, connection, and artistic expression during the holiday season. The audience can look forward to more exciting events and interactions, promising to keep the festive spirit alive. Whether enjoying the warmth of Oiwai’s artwork or the high-energy performances of Venus, those attending these events are sure to leave with cherished memories and inspiration.
