DUO SHOW WITH BOSCO SODI
SPEAKING IN SILENCE

RYOSOKUIN ZEN TEMPLE, KYOTO, JAPAN
2 NOVEMBER – 17 NOVEMBER 2024

The cross-disciplinary exhibition “黙: SPEAKING IN SILENCE – Bosco Sodi & Izumi Kato” opens on November 2 at Kyotoʼs historic Ryosokuin Zen Temple marking the first collaboration between Mexican artist Bosco Sodi and Japanese artist Izumi Kato. Co-curated by the artists themselves, this exhibition is a result of a creative dialogue that spanned over 15 years since their friendship began in 2007. Despite their distinct geographical and artistic backgrounds, both Sodi and Kato draw deeply rooted cultural practices that explore themes of death, nature, and primal beliefs common threads between Mexico and Japan.Based in Mexico and New York, Bosco Sodi is internationally renowned for his use of organic materials such as wood, earth, and stone to create dynamic, beautiful pieces that resemble fragments of the Earth itself. His work intentionally retains elements and randomness mirroring the natural world with splashes and distortions.Based in Tokyo and Hong Kong, Izumi Kato has exhibited across major art capitals, including New York, LA, London, and Paris. His imaginative approach, which often explores the potential of painting through figurative "human shapes”, has evolved beyond the canvas to include various materials such as wood, soft vinyl, fabric, stone, and metal.

The exhibition will showcase approximately 30 new site-specific artworks offering visitors to rare opportunity to experience Ryosokuin, a sub-temple of the Kennin-ji, the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto, founded by Minamoto no Yoriie in 1202.

All photos Mitsuru Wakabayashi, Courtesy of Executive Committee

For the duration of the exhibition, visitors will be able to explore the temple's historic architecture and landscapes, including the “Hojo” where ceremonies and zazen meditations take place; the “Daishoin” once used as a study by the monks; and the scenic garden featuring a pond and strolling paths. The installations will be integrated into these venerable spaces. Additionally, tea ceremonies will be held in the “Rinchi-tei”, a tea room once favored by Omura Baiken. We hope you will find joy in experiencing the serene atmosphere of Ryosokuin in late autumn and witnessing how the artworks interact and resonate in the temple.