The spectacular light art of NAKED Inc., Japanese Projection Mapping and Illumination specialist.
Other than TeamLab Borderless, which I’ve already posted about earlier, I attended two other fantastic projection mapping and light art exhibitions/shows during my November Japan trip.
Both were conceptualised by NAKED Inc., and took place in Nagoya and Kyoto respectively. To be quite honest, I wasn’t familiar with this Japanese design studio before these visits, although looking back, I realized I probably came across their works on the Internet before.
In short, NAKED Inc. describes itself as a designer of human experiences. Their specialty is the transformation of spaces using art, design, and technology.
CITY LIGHT FANTASIA by NAKED ｰANNIVERSARY | Nagoya TV Tower
Again, to be honest, I didn’t know about this projection mapping extravaganza till actually at Nagoya TV Tower. I was lumbering about the vicinity, taking shots for my (soon-to-come) Yakuza 5 post when I came across it.
Having greatly enjoyed FLOWERS (see below) a couple of days earlier, I decided right away to head in, even though I was quite exhausted from walking. The short of it, it was a rejuvenating experience. Though the actual projection mapping exhibition is quite small, the breezy concept it stood on delighted and refreshed.
CITY LIGHT FANTASIA by NAKED ｰANNIVERSARY is ongoing at Nagoya TV Tower till Jan 6, 2019. Hours are 1800 to 2200 (last entry at 2130), except for the final six days when the exhibition closes one hour earlier. Adult entry: 1000 yen. 15 and below (?) entry: 500 yen.
FLOWERS BY NAKED 2018 – Kyoto · Nijo Castle
Unlike City Light Fantasia ｰAnniversary, this one I did intend to visit, having read about it while planning my itinerary. My summary of the visit:
- It’s great to be able to enter Nijo Castle after dark! Medieval monuments always feel different, and magical, after sunset.
- The outdoor illuminations, including the projection mapping on Karamon Gate, felt somewhat … minimal. (Honest opinion). On the other hand, the illuminated Japanese gardens were spectacular.
- The indoor light art/sculpture section of FLOWERS was splendid. There weren’t a lot of works on display, but what’s there was fun, entertaining, and creative.
Unfortunately, right after photographing Karamon Gate, I was politely told by an usher that tripods weren’t allowed. This translates to me having few other decent outdoor shots. (Unless you wanna see ISO 51200 ones …) 🙁
As mentioned, I enjoyed NAKED INC.’s indoor displays at Nijo Castle most.
FLOWERS BY NAKED 2018 ended on Dec 9, 2018.However, a spring version will take place in Tokyo, Nihonbashi Mitsui Hall, from Jan 29, 2019 to Mar 3, 2018. Details here at Naked Inc.’s website!
