Imagine being colour-blind but with the help of a pair of glasses, discovering what colours look like. Arsham does just this in his series titled Colour Shadows, bringing a new dimension to his work after seeing colours for the first time. Using this colour chiaroscuro, he reimagines icons from his childhood in scale and material, using original fabric from stuffed animals and creating almost a patchwork of memories. Pushing himself like never before, Arsham engages completely with the gallery space from floor to ceiling and features sculptures realised in fascinating detail.
But just across the city you’ll find Nanzuka, and whilst the shows are close in location, they are far in likeness. Architectural Anomalies references Arsham’s previous works that received much attention and praise at last year’s Moscow Biennale. His works look at the confusion between space and physical sensations, making his sculptures seem impossible on scientific grounds. A renowned experimenter, both series’ works use a variety of materials from volcanic ash to obsidian, and also feature his first ever pieces using bronze. So maybe it’s time to book that long-awaited holiday to Japan.