From July 5, 2024, LAID BUG will host Christopher Zanko's solo exhibition "Kakurega."
Christopher Zanko, based in Wollongong, Australia, is renowned for his warm works that fuse wood relief carving with painting, making him one of Australia's leading artists.

Many of Christopher's subjects depict familiar motifs such as mid-20th century suburban homes, potted plants on porches, and cars — symbols deeply rooted in the collective memory, now subjected to societal, economic, political, and environmental pressures. His wood carvings, rich in color and shadow, shed light on traces of forgotten communities, prompting viewers to reflect on "the present of the past."

Following his solo exhibition "Measured Moments" at LAID BUG in November 2022, which focused on Australian landscapes, this new exhibition will feature works themed around Japan.

Having been greatly influenced by traditional Japanese woodblock prints, Christopher has frequently visited Japan, conducting fieldwork across various regions. His observations have captured the marks of life in Japan, altered by external pressures over decades—from post-war reconstruction to economic growth, bubble bursts, and the impact of COVID-19 and the Olympics. In Tokyo, relentless redevelopment erases the past, yet amidst high-rise alleys, one can stumble upon houses frozen in time. These stark contrasts in Tokyo's landscape resonate deeply with Christopher's artistic statement.

The exhibition will showcase Christopher's ongoing painted wood relief carvings and ceramic works premiering in Japan. An art book documenting last year's and current works, along with their creative backgrounds, and original air fresheners molded after his pieces will also be available for purchase.

This event offers a rare opportunity to view Christopher's works inspired by Japan, a place he considers a second home. We hope many will have the chance to appreciate these artworks.