marihiraga
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Collaboration Performance of Art and Music
Video
At the “Ethereal Thoughts in Cycles of Flow” exhibition on December 16, the live sculpture was performed in collaboration with the plant-music unit “Seeds of Earth.”
The installation was transformed during the performance, reinforcing the imagery of filamentary connections.
Previous live sculptures were accompanied by the sound of the nohkan flute, but this time, through a special collaboration, the event took on a unique character.
The performance featured Ms. Chiyo’s graceful piano and vocals combined with Mr. Kakky’s powerful yet delicate djembe and vocals, creating exquisite harmony. The music was both dynamic and soothing, and the atmosphere was shared with all present.
Many new connections were made, and during the gathering, Kobe’s renowned sake and local specialties were enjoyed in a convivial setting.
I sincerely thank all visitors and collaborators!!
( 2025.12.31 )
RESONANT FLOW
The solo installation exhibition “Ethereal Thoughts in Cycles of Flow,” held from December 9 - 27, has successfully concluded.
The niece of my high school former art teacher visited, and I shared fond memories of the teacher.
Many visitors who stopped by out of curiosity also visited, leading to meaningful exchanges.
I am grateful to “Seeds of Earth,” all event participants, supporting companies, and Mr. Den and the staff of DEN GALLERY.
It was a valuable and enjoyable time.
Thank you very much!!
( 2025.12.31 )
Epilogue
The opportunity to hold a solo exhibition at DEN GALLERY arose after a South Korean artist I had met at a previous exhibition in South Korea expressed a wish:
“I truly want to hold a solo exhibition in Japan, but I cannot afford to rent a gallery. Is there any good way?”
Soon after receiving this request, I happened to find the gallery’s announcement for applications. While returning from Taiwan via Tokyo, I visited the gallery for a preview, asked several questions, and provisionally reserved a schedule on the artist’s behalf.
In the end, the artist did not proceed with the solo exhibition, and ultimately, I decided to take the opportunity myself and present a solo installation exhibition.
I believe this, too, is another form of connection.
And then, this artist has decided to participate in a group exhibition of DEN GALLERY next year.
( 2025.12.31 )
Pop-Up @ Miratap Osaka
My works were exhibited as a pop-up at the Japan Institute of Architects commemorative event held in the Miratap Osaka showroom on December 3rd.
( 2025.12.4 )
Collaboration Performance of Art and Music
[Mari Hiraga × Seeds of Earth]
Event Image
The “Seeds of Earth” live performance converts plant bioelectric signals into sound, accompanied by live sculpture, creating a distinctive and original presentation.
( 2025.12.4 )
Exhibition Summary
Mari Hiraga Solo Exhibition of Installation Art
Ethereal Thoughts in Cycles of Flow
Flowing thoughts take no form
Light falls into the margins of existence
Particles of memory circle the world
At every moment, countless lives are born and pass away.
Life possesses both the brilliance of flourishing beauty and the fragility of being lost in an instant.
In this milestone year—thirty years since the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, one year since the Noto Peninsula Earthquake, and eighty years since the end of the war—I will hold an exhibition on the theme of “Life.”
In March of this year, my high school art teacher passed away at the age of 89.
After a period of inactivity in my twenties, my decision to resume artistic work in my thirties was deeply influenced by my wish to respond to my teacher’s expectations.
For this reason, I intend to project the grandeur of life into my works as a tribute to the cycle of existence. Incorporating elements such as the circulation of life, the flow of memory, connection, and social unity, I will express the uplifting energy of life as an unparalleled gift.
This exhibition will feature a large-scale installation expressing the entire space, 2D works, and a special collaboration event with the plant-music unit, Seeds of Earth. The installation will be a special work combining Mari Hiraga’s “Memory” series and “Anthropomorphism” series.
I would be honored by your kind attendance.
Collab Performance
Mari Hiraga × Seeds of Earth
Collaboration Performance of Art and Music
2025.12.16 (Tue)（Two performances (daytime and evening), including a social gathering each time）
・13:30 - 15:30 (Reception from 13:00)
・19:00 - 21:00 (Reception from 18:30)
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1. Mini Live of the Seeds of Earth 2. Mari Hiraga Live Sculpture with Seeds of Earth 3. Social Gathering Admission fee: 4000 yen Gathering: Includes light snacks and one drink (local specialties from Kobe). Additional drinks available on a cash-on basis.  Booking: https://mosh.jp/services/320214* Cash payment available at the venue |
Introduction
Performers:
Piano＆Vocal: Chiyo Kaiga
Djembe＆Vocal: Kackey@dabigtree
Art Performance: Mari Hiraga
Seeds of Earth:
Music of the Plants, Seeds of Earth, formed in 2017, are two artists from Kansai, a piano & vocal Chiyo Kaiga, and an African djembe & vocal Kackey @ dabigtree.
Those talented singers who spin inspiration from all things in nature, are also active as a lyricists and composers, and have backgrounds in classical and gospel.
The songs of various variations produced from piano, djembe, and mixed chorus DUO are a treasure trove of imagination. In addition, the world view of sound that improvises by fusing 'Music of the Plant' * with pop music revives the memory of the soul that people have forgotten in ancient times.
Considering music as a universal language, we will share the energy of joy by promoting international exchange through music activities not only in Kansai and other parts of the country, but also in Europe, India, Tanzania tours, etc.
Mari Hiraga:
Mari Hiraga is a sculptor who continues to express the “human world” through nature with anthropomorphism.
Continuously trying to bring the best out of each material and put importance on space, I sublimate her thoughts into an organic expression together with her original concepts.
Paying respect to Japanese classics such as the Noh, she re-examines the beauty of Japan and aims to create a new form of Japanese culture where its core and her identity co-exist through expression.
⚫︎Live Sculpture
The various parts of the sculpture are assembled like ikebana to create a large size sculpture by Mari Hiraga.
⚫︎Installation
Art expression method that expresses the entire space
Flowing thoughts meet resonant sounds.
Join us for two special performances in one day where art and music converge.
Booking: https://mosh.jp/services/320214
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( 2025.11.26 )
Mind×Morpho×Phyllo
Human body and Flora
Fusion of Art and Science
Starting in September as a continuation of the “MirrorMe SpaceMe” exhibition, this show combined Mari Hiraga’s “Anthropomorphism” series and “Memory” series, presenting contemporary art exploring the correlation between nerve cells and plant structures.
Utilizing the characteristics of the showroom, the exhibition allowed visitors to envision art in daily life and experience art within space.
It was undoubtedly a step forward in my practice and will inform future exhibitions.
I am grateful for the connections made through the Osaka Kansai International Art Festival and with Miratap.
Next year, another solo exhibition will be held at the Miratap Osaka showroom, with pop-ups and permanent installations beginning.
I will continue to pursue inspiring exhibitions.
( 2025.11.22 )
MirrorMe SpaceMe
Human body and Universe
This exhibition marks the beginning of a new phase, which I am delighted about.
Thank you sincerely to all visitors!!
I am grateful for the connections that have expanded.
Future solo exhibitions are also planned at the Miratap showroom.
( 2025.11.22 )
EXPO Projection Mapping
The digital art screenings at Expo are nearing completion.
On the final day, October 13, all programs will be shown together.
My program “Group F” will be screened from 20:37 to 21:02.
( 2025.10.11 )
MEMORY
My digital artwork “MEMORY” will be screened at the Expo venue at night from September 13 for one month.
Program: September 13 - October 12
( 2025.9.11 )
Summary
The Mind × Morpho × Phyllo exhibition in Tokyo presents contemporary art exploring the correlation between nerve cells and plant structures.
The relationship between the human body and plants is perceived not only structurally but also functionally and conceptually. The interactions between subject and environment are expressed through the properties of metals, guiding viewers into the artist’s unique worldview.
Explanations:
Developments:
I will expresses human world through anthropomorphism and nature, projecting the similarities between plant branching structures and nerve cells into metal works.
( 2025.8.18 )
Summary
The MirrorMe SpaceMe exhibition in Osaka presents contemporary art exploring the correlation between nerve cells and cosmic filament structures.
It expresses the flow of matter in the human body and the universe, the connections and development, and the interactions between subject and space, utilizing the properties of various metals to invite viewers into the artist’s unique worldview.
Explanations:
Developments:
I will project the similarities between nerve cells and cosmic filaments into metal works.
( 2025.8.6 )
MEMORY
Nerve Cells and Blossoms of Memories
( Reposted on 2025.8.6 )
Venue Preview @ Haneda Airport
June 7th
I previewed a space for my solo exhibition to be held at Tokyo Haneda Airport.
( 2025.6.9 )
Venue Preview @ Minamiaoyama
June 6th
I previewed a space for my solo exhibition.
( 2025.6.9 )
Thank you for coming
The Crystal Blossom Flow exhibition held last month has successfully concluded.
Exhibiting in a different space was a valuable and joyful experience. I sincerely thank all the visitors, those who came by chance, and everyone who supported the exhibition in various ways!!
A particularly memorable aspect was that two visitors were moved to tears by my works. One of them, a scientist visiting from the United States, upon seeing a piece from the “Memory” series, remarked, “It looks like a synapse.” I was astonished and delighted, as that is precisely the concept of the work. Something resonated deeply within her, and she was moved to tears.
Future solo exhibitions are planned in Osaka and Tokyo. The confirmed schedule at Grand Front Osaka is September 5–15.
I would be most grateful if you could come and visit me.
( 2025.6.9 )
Crystal Blossom Flow & University extracurricular classes
May 19th
At the request of Japan University of Economics, I spoke to students about the reasons I became a sculptor, and also shared memories of my high school former art teacher who recently passed away.
( 2025.6.9 )
1-Day Experience: Sculpture and Japanese Confectionery
Crystal Blossom Flow @ Toraya-Yoshisue | Manan
① Collaboration Performance
② Tea kaiseki lunch time
③ Live Sculpture Experience
④ Experience making Japanese confectionery
⑤ Live Sculpture
May 10th
The opening event was filled with laughter and joy.
I extend my gratitude to Mr. Manta of Toraya-Yoshisue, the staff, and all the guests.
( 2025.6.9 )
EXPO | Screening Information
The schedule for the screening of Mari Hiraga's digital artwork on the exterior wall of the EXPO Hall has been confirmed as follows!
program F:
September 13 - October 12
Scheduled to be shown twice daily (approx. 25 min. each time)
①19:30〜 ②20:10〜
* Please note that from September 25th, the first screening time will be from 19:00.
( 2025.5.1 )
Ka・Ki・Tsu・Ba・Ta
On Saturday, May 10, Mari Hiraga’s live sculpture performance “BEING FLOW LIVE” will incorporate the sound of the nohkan flute from the Noh play “Kakitsubata.”
As in last year’s Sagariha, it is a profoundly beautiful melody.
In the Kakitsubata, Ariwara no Narihira composes a poem beginning with the five characters, ka-ki-tsu-ba-ta, reflecting on the journey of life.
In May, please enjoy the sculptor’s art performance accompanied by the exquisite sound of the nohkan.
( 2025.4.27 )
EXPO｜Advance information
Due to many inquiries, the current schedule for the screening of my digital artwork on the EXPO Hall exterior wall will be during one of the following periods.
Program D （July 13 - August 12）
program E （August 13 - September 12）
program F （September 13 - October 12）
It looks like it will be decide soon, so please wait for a while.
( 2025.4.27 )
Prince, U always motivate me
Colonized Mind | Prince
Upload the evolution principle
U C a rock on the shore and say
It's always been there
Download no responsibility
Do what U want, nobody cares
Upload, a joint venture record deal
It's just another way 4 the man 2 steal
While he's sticking U with the bill
Download, the temporary acquisition
Of fleeting fame and fortune
Nothing 2 leave in Ur will
( 2025.4.21 )
PROJECTION MAPPING
EXPO 2025
EXPO Hall “Shining Hat” Projection Mapping
At the Expo Hall “Shining Hat,” the venue’s symbolic exterior wall will host projection mapping works expressing hope and visions for the future.
My work on the theme of memory will be screened. Details will be updated later.
( 2025.4.16 )
Venue Preview @ Grand Front Osaka
The other day, I visited a exhibition space for my upcoming solo exhibition. The wide area will allow for an expansive display, and I am genuinely looking forward to it.
( 2025.4.16 )
Summary
The Crystal Blossom Flow exhibition by Mari Hiraga will be held at Toraya-Yoshisue’s Kura Cafe, Manan, featuring sculptures from the “Anthropomorphism” series, works from the “Memory” series that fuse art and science, and live sculpture performances accompanied by the sound of the nohkan. The exhibition will present Mari Hiraga’s worldview in various forms within a refined space infused with traditional culture. A special collaboration event will be held on the opening day.
Anthropomorphism Series:
Expressing the human world with anthropomorphism through nature etc, using metal as the primary material.
Memory Series:
Focusing on memory not only from a retrospective perspective but also from a systematic viewpoint.
This exhibition, combining Mari Hiraga’s works that elevate thought into organic expression with Toraya-Yoshisue’s confectionery inspired by seasonal flowers and festivals, is deeply meaningful as a sculptor.
One-Day Experience: Sculpture and Japanese Confectionery
2025.5.10 (Sat) 11:30 Start
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1. Collaboration Performance 2. Cha-Kaiseki Lunch Time 3. Live Sculpture Experience 4. Jo-namagashi Making Experience 5. Live Sculpture Details: Collaboration Performance: Sculpture and Japanese Confectionery A collaboration performance will be held between Toraya-Yoshisue’s eighth-generation master confectioner, who creates seasonal jo-namagashi, and Mari Hiraga, who weaves metal sculptures inspired by them. Both will create works in real time, reflecting the season. Cha-Kaiseki Lunch Time During the tea ceremony, a light meal is usually served one dish at a time, but here it is presented as a single boxed meal. Live Sculpture Experience Participants may select several sculptural parts created by Mari Hiraga and freely assemble them into miniature metal sculptures, enjoying the process casually. Jo-namagashi Making Experience “Jo-namagashi” is traditional Japanese confection that abstractly express wildflowers, seasons, and traditional festivals through color and form. The name derives from sweets once offered to the Imperial Court. This workshop allows each participant to express Japanese sensibility through inherited traditions. Live sculpture BEING FLOW LIVE An art performance will be held in which Mari Hiraga assembles and creates a sculpture approximately two meters wide, accompanied by the sound of the nohkan played by a Kyoto Noh musician. Reservation required. Lunch included. Participation fee: ¥30,000. The live sculpture performance will be held on the second floor. |
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Introduction: Toraya-Yoshisue’s eighth-generation master confectioner: Mr. Yusuke Manta
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Reservations can be made by contacting Mari Hiraga directly or by clicking “Email Reservation” above, then “Create Email Screen Here,” to easily compose and send a reservation email.
( 2025.4.7 )
Crystal Blossom Flow
( 2025.4.6 )
Images | Crystal Blossom Flow Exhibition
The event scheduled for May 10 will be a paid one-day experience, offering a rich variety of activities to enjoy.
( 2025.3.25 )
A collaboration between sculpture and Japanese confectionery
This is a planned event to be held on May 10.
Crystal Blossom Flow Exhibition
- One-Day Experience: Sculpture and Japanese Confectionery -
2025.5.10 (Sat.) 11:30 Start
| 1. Collaboration Performance 2. Cha-Kaiseki Lunch Time 3. Live Sculpture Experience 4. Jo-namagashi Making Experience 5. Live Sculpture |
( 2025.2.26 )
Received the publication
My sculptures will be published in the Art and Literature ○△□ No.11.
In Kobe, it scheduled to be released at the Maruzen and Junkudo Bookstore's Sannomiya branch on 1 March.
( 2025.2.24 )
Venue Preview @ Mikage
Today I visited a exhibition space for my solo exhibition planned in May.
It is a traditional Japanese setting in the kura of a long-established confectionery shop. A collaboration event will also be held.
( 2025.1.16 )
Venue Preview @ Ginza
Last week, I previewed a space for my solo exhibition.
It is a very simple space that will open this year.
( 2025.1.16 )
Happy New Year !!!
May this year be a great one.
( 2025.1.1 )
