Koko Shimizu: Future of Life
Abstract, emotional paintings by a Cybernetic Japanese Girl
July 4th through July 28th
Reception with the artist: Sunday, July 14th
Ryuhow is a celebrated, museum-exhibited artist in her native Japan. A prodigy, she has been painting since she was ten years old. In 2008 her career and practice changed with the birth of her third daughter, Koko, who was born with severe congenital disease of the spine. Koko struggled just to remain alive until an experimental procedure was performed that implanted a micro-sized regulatory computer in her brain. The first few years of Koko’s life were a series of operations, technological upgrades and medical treatments that helped greatly reduced the inherent risks of her diagnosis. Ryuhow’s entire body of work now revolves around her daughter who has been equal parts miracle and muse, and both student and collaborator.
Koko Shimizu may look perfectly healthy, but she has struggled just to remain alive since birth. An experimental procedure that implanted a micro-sized regulatory computer in her brain has helped to reduce the inherent risk of her diagnosis, but Koko’s life continues to be a series of operations, technological upgrades and medical treatments that risk debilitation in the pursuit of well-being. Art has been an important part of her recovery, so Koko purchases art supplies for other children in hospice care with proceeds from the sale of her work–including those sold in this, her first solo exhibition. Shortly after this show closes, Koko will return to Japan for yet another operation which is expected to greatly inhibit her mobility, making this her last likely visit to the United States.
Contact director Matt Kennedy for purchase info or to be placed on the preview list:
Matt Kennedy
Gallery Director
(323)547-3227
info@gallery30south.com
Gallery 30 South is located at 30 S. Wilson Ave. in Pasadena – three blocks east of Lake Ave., and just south of Colorado Blvd., right up the street from CalTech. There is ample street and nearby lot parking.
