Jinya Yamakawa

Born in Japan and raised in Hawaii until the tender age of six, Jinya Yamakawa embarked on a

journey that would shape his artistic trajectory. Returning to his homeland, he immersed himself

in the vibrant Japanese culture while pursuing his education at an international high school. As

his passion for the arts blossomed, Yamakawa sought to refine his skills at The New School

Parsons School of Design, where he delved into the realm of Fine Arts. Despite the

unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, he persevered and proudly

graduated in the year 2020.

Central to Yamakawa's artistic oeuvre are his narrative-driven works, which revolve around the captivating concept of 'MELTDOWN.' Through his masterful brushstrokes and meticulous attention to detail, he seamlessly merges the boundaries between subject and background, crafting a captivating illusion of camouflage. In doing so, he deftly addresses profound themes related to power dynamics, cultural nuances, and the intricacies of the human psyche. Yamakawa's artistic vision extends beyond the surface, inviting viewers to explore the hidden layers within his creations. With each stroke of his brush, he skillfully weaves a story that captures the imagination and beckons the viewer to question their own perceptions.

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His works transcend the traditional confines of art, offering a window into the profound

complexity of the human experience. Drawing inspiration from his multicultural upbringing and

personal experiences, Yamakawa's art resonates with a diverse audience. His compositions

serve as a visual exploration of the human condition, prompting introspection and fostering

dialogue. With a keen eye for detail and an unwavering dedication to his craft, Jinya Yamakawa

continues to push the boundaries of contemporary art, leaving an indelible mark on the art world

with his thought-provoking and evocative creations.

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SOLO EXHIBITIONS

2024     Calculated Risk, Shibuya Parco, Tokyo

2023     First or Last, Gallery Gwanram, Seoul

EDUCATION

2004-2016   St.Mary’s International School / Tokyo

2016-2020   The New School Parsons School of Design / New York BFA

CV

2016            Shirogumi.inc Story Editor

2017            Clear Edition & Gallery Artist Assistant

2017-2019   MADSAKI Artist Assistant

2020            nana-nana Chief Operating Officer

2020            JESSO.inc Chief Executive Officer

2022            MELTDOWN TOKYO EXHIBITION EVENT

2023            SOLO EXHIBITION “FIRST OR LAST” at GALLERY GWANRAM