Galerie Jacob Paulett stands at the forefront of the “Nippon Neo Pop” movement , actively championing the evolution of Japanese Neo Pop on a global scale. Known for its keen eye in discovering and nurturing emerging talent from the vibrant studioCrazynoodles roster—including notable figures like Hiro Ando, Aya Toshikawa “Lady Kawai”, and Yoshihiro Fujita—the gallery has cemented its reputation in cultivating the careers of its artists. With an expanding international clientele and a network of advisors, Galerie Jacob Paulett serves as a nexus for collectors seeking the next wave of art influencers, as well as established names in the Neo Pop realms.
In the landscape of Neo-Pop Art, Allen Jones’ iconic Hatstand sculpture stands as a testament to the genre’s rich narrative, as highlighted in Bijutsu Tech?’s examination of Pop to Neo Pop. The term “neo-pop,” attributed to editor Kiyoshi Kusumi, transcends mere aesthetic, diving into Japan’s intricate history and cultural dialogues, as advocated by critic Noi Sawaragi. This movement, represented by artists like Takashi Murakami and Hiro Ando, merges contemporary themes with traditional motifs, exploring Japan’s dualities.
Hiro Ando’s art epitomizes the seamless integration of traditional Japanese elements with modern culture, particularly through his renowned cat series sculptures. These works, which began in 2006, blend iconic imagery of samurais and koi fish with urban landscapes, capturing the essence of Tokyo’s juxtaposition between the ancient and the contemporary. Ando’s creations, ranging from fiberglass to stainless steel, not only celebrate Japan’s cultural heritage but also critique its societal obsessions, offering a profound commentary on identity and tradition.