Gallery Tour and Workshop: TENTACLE by Bikky Sunazawa

Join us for a free lunchtime tour and workshop related to our exhibition, TENTACLE by Bikky Sunazawa, led by Satomi Igarashi and Ryoko Sunazawa.

Bikky Sunazawa (1931-1989) was one of Japan’s most prominent post-War sculptors. Born in Asahikawa on the island of Hokkaido, he was self-taught, developing a practice that was concerned essentially with self-expression through capturing the spirit of human and animal subjects. He is most renowned for his woodcarving, sometimes for public sculptures, but also made abstract paintings and drawings, accessories and furniture.

Bikky emphasised tactile sensation, as he considered touch to be the most undervalued of the five senses. He created sculptures that could be handled and moved, rather than merely seen, allowing people to engage directly with the object world which he referred to as ‘the labyrinth’. Some of his sculptures involve moving parts.

The tours will focus on Bikky Sunazawa’s art practice, his humanity, and his true nature. In the workshop that follows, the participants will have an opportunity to make an artwork called 樹頭を持つ女 (Woman carrying the treetop) out of willow sticks, which will be displayed in the gallery. 

As the number of participants is limited, we urge you to sign up quickly. 

Bikky Sunazawa’s catalogue published by The Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art (北海道立近代美術館) will be on sale during the event for the price of £25. Please note that we accept cash only, and there is a limited number of copies available to purchase.