ARTIST INTERVIEW WITH KANTA KIMURA FOR NUCLEUS

We live in an economy of attention. Everything around us competes for our consideration: ideas, ideologies, products, lifestyles or simply the quest for love or respect in social contexts. We are literally bombarded with information on every level of our existence via media, tech, bureaucracy, politics, family and friendships. Never before in human history has the sheer volume and speed of information been so overwhelming. While this constant influx brings inspiration, comfort, knowledge and connection, it also can make us feel overwhelmed, create despair or frustration and can lead to mental health issues. That said: there is nothing more radical, healthy and beautiful than embracing simplicity and taking the time to slow down and truly appreciate things.

Circle Culture Gallery aims to explore this core aspect of our time through an ongoing exhibition series that celebrates maximum focus. Exhibitions featuring a single work of art in an otherwise empty gallery. No distraction by other works. Full focus on one artist’s creation.

Idea by Dirk Staudinger

Curated by Johann Haehling von Lanzenauer

Interview with Kanta Kimura: 

NUCLEUS – Embracing Simplicity and Depth in Art

Johann: Welcome, Kanta. Your participation in “NUCLEUS – The one artwork show” at Circle Culture Gallery marks a departure from traditional group exhibitions. How does it feel to have your work showcased in such a minimalist, focused format?

Kanta: I feel very honored to participate in Nucleus with one of my works. I believe it is the best possible way to present a piece, as it allows for a singular focus on one artwork. I intended to paint a new piece for this exhibition within three weeks. Now, in the fourth week, I still haven’t achieved a satisfactory result for the show. This process has catalyzed my work in a short time, leading me to reflect in many different directions. I’m curious to see what will end up hanging on the wall in the end.

Johann: Your paintings are known for their intricate layers and textures, achieved through a unique technique involving compressed air. How do you think this method enhances the viewer’s experience in such a focused setting?

Kanta: I think the viewer will take more time to let the painting sink in and observe how it interacts with the space. A painting’s impact is fully realized when it is hung in a distraction-free environment, and that is provided here. One can contemplate its immediate and distant effects, with an audience or without. Additionally, questions arise about whether this work can effectively occupy the space, whether it commands a presence, or if it risks being overshadowed in the room. These considerations prompt reflection on why this particular work was chosen as the singular focus, as the “Nucleus.”

Johann: The concept behind “NUCLEUS” emphasizes the importance of slowing down and appreciating things deeply. How does your work contribute to this dialogue on mindfulness and focused attention?

Kanta: I think that through slowing down and sinking in, one can discover the “frozen moment in time,” where layers of color from different periods coexist, revealing a tableau that captures the past, present, and future.

Johann: Your career has spanned international exhibitions, including prestigious venues like the Nationalmuseum Bukarest and the Tomioka Art Museum. How does participating in “NUCLEUS” contribute to your artistic journey?

Kanta: It is an exhibition that has challenged me, as only a single piece is shown. This experience has led me to think more deeply about my artistic practice. Many paintings were created, then washed off or painted over, which helped me discover many possibilities for future paintings.

Johann: Looking ahead, how do you think exhibitions like “NUCLEUS” shape the future of contemporary art discourse?

Kanta: I think exhibitions like “NUCLEUS” influence the contemporary art discourse by exploring new ways and formats for presenting art. They encourage a deeper examination of individual works and enable artists to showcase their pieces within a focused context. I am curious to see how the “NUCLEUS” exhibition series will develop and which individual works other artists will present.

Johann: Thank you, Kanta, for sharing your insights. Your participation in “NUCLEUS” promises to enrich the dialogue on simplicity, depth, and focused attention in contemporary art. Something we really need in those challenging times.