Presented by Gallery 27, Kazumasa Nagai: From Now to Eternity is the Japanese graphic design master’s first retrospective in Hong Kong, showcasing over 100 posters and original etchings works since late 1950s.
Displaying the evolution of Nagai’s design language, the exhibition is divided into four chapters:
Chapter 1: Lens to the World
Nagai’s works in the 1950s to 70s were mainly posters for corporations and cultural events, logos, magazine, and book covers, which were distinctively geometric and abstract. While working in Japan, the Bauhaus movement profoundly influenced Nagai’s graphic compositions.
Chapter 2: Beyond the Horizon
A range of posters created in 1974 – Graphic 4, GQ, and Kawakichi – reflect Nagai’s distinctive sense of space. These posters show motifs depicting the universe and landscape that express his futuristic worldview.
Chapter 3: Imagery of the Living World
From the late 80s, Nagai began producing personal works and focused on depicting animals and plants with figurative expressions as his primary motifs. Centred on the awareness for endangered species and environmental protection, Nagai turned to an emotional appeal that weaves design with social awareness.
Chapter 4: Friends for Life
After making a drastic transition from abstraction to figuration, Nagai continues to explore the motifs of the living creatures with the LIFE series until today. It also marked his creative turn from commercial commissions to personal expression, which focuses on the harmony and co-existence of human beings and nature.
Shown chronologically, the four chapters trace Nagai’s transformative practice from geometric abstract form in the 1950s and 60s, to his experimentation with photo collage in the 70s, to figurative illustrations he continues to practise until today.
Highlights
Prior to the showcase, one of the animals has been extruded into a 1.9-metre-tall sculpture, displayed in the middle of the venue. The piece was constructed in collaboration with House of Design & Art. You can also extend your journey from a 2D to a 3D experience and have fun in the selfie corner! Moreover, a special launch of five limited-edition collectible art figures (30 editions each), with signed and numbered certificate of authenticity, will be open to pre-order at the pop-up store from 30 September. This is Nagai’s first-ever collectible art figures, in addition to tote bags, cushion covers, and more. Don’t miss out!
Public event: Create your own masterpiece!
Until 2pm on 12 October, all visitors are invited to colour, sketch, and make your mark on this retrospective event. Take a seat at the free-drawing area and try your hand at the colouring-in pages to see your drawings come to life. Your finished work will even be displayed onto the wall! Share your creations by using #Gallery27xNagai and tag @Gallery27hk to enter a contest: 10 outstanding works will be selected by Alan Chan, the founder of Gallery 27, and special gifts will be given to the winners. Families of all ages are welcome to join!
About Kazumasa Nagai
Kazumasa Nagai is widely recognised as one of the most acclaimed Japanese designers and printmakers in the 20th century. His early creative works – ranging from commercial branding to national identity, to poster- and print-making – speak for a post-war way of seeing and contemporary design language. He created many iconic commercial designs and posters including Asahi Breweries, Nissin, 1972 Sapporo Winter Olympics and Expo 1975 in Okinawa, as well as his signature LIFE series poster. Now at the age of 93, Nagai continues to draw and work everyday, amassing his poster portfolio to over 1,000 pieces.