Contemporary artist KYOTARO (Kyotaro Aoki) continues to create works with delicate yet dynamic imagery and a truly unique presence.

For her upcoming first overseas solo exhibition “Kyotaro Aoki Solo Exhibition — What Dwells Within (宿畫 / 宿り絵),”

taking place at Whimsy Works in Taipei, Taiwan, a special collaboration with Maison MIHARA YASUHIRO has been created.

The collaboration T-shirt will be available from 21st August at two Maison MIHARA YASUHIRO stores in Japan and the official online store.

After five years since KYOTARO’s solo exhibition held in 2021 at “Musekinin Gallery,” a gallery operated by Maison MIHARA YASUHIRO in Fukuoka,

both join again to explore their respective forms of expression beyond conventional boundaries into the T-shirt.

KYOTARO’s artwork is printed on a body featuring Maison MIHARA YASUHIRO’s signature faded and distressed finish,

resulting in a psychedelic mood with an underlying sense of delicacy.

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I feel a sense of wonder that, 26 years after the “VILO-VILO” exhibition in 2000, this work is being presented again in this form.

At the time I created this piece, I was in a state of ‘emptiness’—creating simply from a place of ‘just being.’

I was able to pour an energy resembling both ‘screams and laughter’ into the work.

I wasn’t concerned with how it would be perceived. I simply wanted to express what I felt, and was able to channel a direct, passionate spirit into the work.

It has become a piece that represents the very origin of KYOTARO.

Looking back after all these years, I have also come to realize that my expression has become somewhat more mellow over time.

Encountering this work again has a powerful impact, as if reconnecting firmly with the frequency of that time and creating a space to protect that energy.

I believe it is a truly remarkable piece.

I was told that this work had always been displayed in Mihara’s home. In that sense as well,

the choice of this motif and its transformation into this T-shirt collaboration carry a special significance.

It would make me happy if the energy of this work could reach those who need it.

— words by KYOTARO

KYOTARO × Maison MIHARA YASUHIRO Tee

color : Black

price : ¥33,000(税込)

Kyotaro Aoki Solo Exhibition — What Dwells Within (宿畫 / 宿り絵)

Opening Reception : 21st August

Exhibition : 22nd August – 20th September

Venue: Whimsy Works, Taipei, Taiwan

ABOUT | KYOTARO (Kyotaro Aoki)

Born in Kyoto in 1978, KYOTARO graduated from the Graphic Design Course at Kyoto Saga University of Arts Junior College.

Drawing inspiration from manga and fairy tales, he developed an early fascination with manga, picture-book illustrations, and psychedelic imagery.

In 1999, he moved his base of activity to Tokyo.

Working across a wide range of disciplines, including drawing, painting, manga, and commissioned works,

KYOTARO continues to develop a distinctive visual language rooted in his unique perspective and imagination.

Instagram / Website

【Stores】

Maison MIHARA YASUHIRO JINGUMAE BUILDING

Maison (MY)Labo.

Maison MIHARA YASUHIRO official online store