Though Yoshitomo Nara’s new work at Pace Gallery is based on traditional Japanese vessel forms, the new ceramic works continue Nara’s practice of tapping into contemporary youth cultures. Whether disaffected or conformist, Nara’s young characters are less the free spirits they normally are; as portly jugs, they come across as more contained. (At Pace Gallery’s 25th Street location through April 29th).
Japanese art star Yoshitomo Nara is back in New York with his trademark young, female characters, but they’ve matured and become decidedly less cute in his first show with Pace Gallery. This five and a half foot tall bronze sculpture has distorted features but a benevolent expression, suggesting she’s more supreme being than pouty kid. (Through June 29th).
Yoshitomo Nara, Setsuko the Cat, bronze, 2012.
