Interview with Yoichi Nakamuta, Founder of CLEAR GALLERY TOKYO

LIFESTYLE - INTERVIEW

by Beren Dere

CLEAR GALLERY TOKYO was founded in 2007 by Yoichi Nakamuta. This indipendent gallery hosts young and talented artists. Tokyo is home of various cultures and CLEAR GALLERY TOKYO reflects this cultural diversity. In order to learn more about himself, his gallery, upcoming events, and Tokyo, I asked Yoichi Nakamuta.

CLEAR GALLERY TOKYO

Yoichi, please tell us about yourself, who is Yoichi Nakamuta?

Japanese. Born in Fukuoka 1957, Founder of CLEAR GALLERY TOKYO, E&Y (Design), and Pon-Ding Taipei (Art Book+Cafe+Gallery). Currently Live&Work in Tokyo and Taipei.

When did you first become interested in art? What inspired you?

Early 80`s, when I was in SOHO New York, living with artists in the loft space.

CLEAR GALLERY TOKYO - Art Fair Around The World July 13th - June 15th 2018

How did you decide to establish your own art gallery, and why did you choose this name, CLEAR GALLERY TOKYO?

I had my first gallery after I returned to Japan from New York. I did not know how difficult to manage Art Gallery, I was too young and no experience.

After closing my first gallery, I move to my major interest in producing art furniture, then I had established my Design Production Company E&Y (Tokyo) in 1985.

In 2007, I started the second gallery, called CLEAR GALLERY. Why? I always wanted to do a contemporary gallery and sounds right time to after many years of design production business. I wanted to put myself bit away from the design world and shifted to what I wanted to do in the beginning.

Could you tell us about CLEAR GALLERY TOKYO and the overall concept?

We are an independent, curatorial Tokyo based art gallery. Working with many young and talented Asian artists.

In my words, "Be a voice, not an Echo”, We are not a second hand art dealer, but always think about "What's next”

CLEAR GALLERY TOKYO - MANABU KOGA Solo Exhibition "GO DIVE"

How do you decide to work with a new artist? What are the most important things that influenced your decision?

Why not? There are many people chasing famous names, as today's art market is very much "FAME GAME” but I feel more thills finding new artists.

That's what I do for over 30 years, and my principle struggles never changes, and I do not want to change, this is my life, right?

CLEAR GALLERY TOKYO - "Guff Tong" by Kazuma Ogata

What are some of the most memorable artists or events you have hosted at your gallery?

All.

Could you tell us about Last, Current and Next exhibitions at CLEAR GALLERY TOKYO? Who are the artists? What were/are/will the concepts?

KAZUMA OGATA , HIMAA, AYAKA NAKAMURA, and KAWITA VATANAJYANKUR, for ART FORMOSA TAIPEI on July 12-15 and MANABU KOGA solo show at CLEAR GALLERY starting 29th JUNE.

CLEAR GALLERY TOKYO - Ayaka Nakamura

How is the art market in Tokyo? What do you think about the future of art market?

Art Market Tokyo is growing, or has been growing by not from effort by the government, art school, or galleries and museums but I strongly believe there are young and "body tight” artists are here in Tokyo. I had a similar feeling in London in 90`s.

What type of services do you offer for local and international buyers? Do you have white glove delivery and international shipping options?

Our 50% of clients are overseas. I hope we are doing okay, for international collectors.

Where is the best public place for understanding the art and culture of Tokyo? and Why?

STREET. Tokyo`s best cultural spots are always on the street. The dynamism of Tokyo sub-culture is much more fun to experience and influential.

CLEAR GALLERY TOKYO - Himaa / Joji Nakamura

What is next for CLEAR GALLERY TOKYO? How can our readers follow your upcoming events?

We have exciting shows lined up in this Autumn. (we close in August). Artists are born after 1990`s and we have been curated top of line ups, new art from Tokyo.

Check out our website. cleargallerytokyo.com

Anything you would like to add that I haven't asked?

We thank you for all readers who support the young artist.

Arigatou Gozaimasu!

Thank you Yoichi.

For more information, please visit website of CLEAR GALLERY TOKYO