YOKOTA TOKYO was pleased to present an exhibition of Noboru Takayama (1944-2023).
Takayama was born in 1944 and studied at the Oil-Painting Department of Tokyo University of the Arts. While in school, he visited coal mines in the northernmost prefecture, Hokkaido. Takayama began a series of experiments with railroad ties from 1968 at the outdoor space provided by his acquaintance (a.k.a. Totsuka Space). He highlighted the contrast of nature and artificiality symbolized by railroad ties that the natural material such as lumber was manufactured with preservatives for railroad. Takayama also focused on the historical and social backgrounds of railroad ties. Using this loaded material, Takayama has created many installations and performances throughout his life.
We exhibited the part of Underground Zoo (railroad ties) and two-dimensional works by Takayama, who sadly passed away last year. We also published his biography specially complied for this exhibition.