Hikaru Narita
Biography
Hikaru Narita, born in Japan, is a contemporary artist known for his innovative work in sculpture and painting. Narita primarily identifies as a sculptor, often creating pieces that draw from the world of animation and toys. His sculptures, characterized by their thin, almost two-dimensional appearance, explore the relationship between objects and space, and the concept of "crushing the depth" of animated characters to bring them into the three-dimensional world.
Narita gained recognition with his first solo exhibition in 2015, which featured fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) sculptures made from discarded toys. His later works transitioned to a more polished, pop art style, incorporating themes of excessive processing and capitalism. This evolution reflects his health-related shift away from using FRP, known for its harmful effects.
His art often blurs the lines between reality and fiction, reflecting the pervasive influence of technology and media in modern life. This duality is evident in his paintings, which resemble smartphone displays and depict discarded toys spray-painted onto canvas, symbolizing the fluidity and transience of modern existence.
Narita's work has been exhibited internationally, including notable shows at Gallery Ascend, and continues to captivate audiences with its unique blend of whimsy and introspection. His pieces often fetch significant prices at auctions, reflecting his growing prominence in the art world.