Exhibition celebrates contributions to art (1)

Toshu Fukami, also known as Haruhisa Handa, gives a speech at the opening ceremony for the 23rd Toshu Fukami Exhibition in Tokyo’s Koto Ward on March 18.
@TTJ TACHIBANA PUBLISHING

 Toshu Fukami, also known as Haruhisa Handa, is a well-known artist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist who recently held an opening ceremony for his solo exhibition, Toshu Fukami Exhibition 2023, at Tokyo Big Sight in Tokyo's Koto Ward on March 18. This marked the 23rd exhibition in his career and was held as a commemoration of his birthday. The exhibition ran from March 18 to March 21 and showcased approximately 170 pieces of art. Among them were 55 works painted over the past year, as well as 80 pieces selected by art critics. The event not only featured the exhibition but also included various performances such as samba and hula dancers, a magic show, and animal shows. Each day of the event concluded with an evening disco-themed party.

  The exhibition attracted a significant number of visitors, with over 12,000 people attending the five-day event, which started a day prior to the opening ceremony.

  Toshu Fukami is a versatile artist who engages in a wide range of artistic fields, including calligraphy, different painting styles, singing, opera, and noh. Throughout his career, he has created an impressive total of 3,546 paintings and works of Japanese calligraphy known as "sho" .

  One notable aspect of Fukami's creative process is his remarkable enthusiasm, concentration, and speed. Every year, the number of exhibited works can vary as Fukami may introduce new paintings that have recently dried. Therefore, the brochures handed out to visitors during the event may not always reflect the exact number of works on display.

  Despite his involvement in multiple businesses and leadership roles in various nonprofit organizations such as Worldwide Support for Development, the International Sports Promotion Society, and the International Foundation for Arts and Culture, Fukami, who recently turned 72, has remained dedicated to his artistic pursuits.

  During his speech at the opening ceremony, Fukami expressed his approach to art and emphasized the importance of mindset in pursuing any occupation. He stated that he draws inspiration from his daily life, capturing whatever attracts him. Fukami believes that as long as there are things a painter wants to depict in their work, they can continue to live as a painter. He extended this idea to all occupations, highlighting the significance of one's mindset in sustaining their chosen path. Fukami believes that by overcoming obstacles and continuing one's endeavors, the light of one's soul and value can be found.

Magician and illusionist Tenko Hikita II, also known as Princess Tenko, performs during the exhibition on March 19
@TTJ TACHIBANA PUBLISHING