SHIKISAISHA is pleased to present a solo exhibition by Nihonga artist Beniko Choji at OMIYA ART WALL and the adjacent soba restaurant SHABA.
Born and raised in Omiya, Choji continues to live and work in the city that has long shaped her artistic sensibility. For this exhibition, she turns her attention to bonsai, a cultural tradition deeply rooted in the Omiya region and closely connected to her own origins. The way bonsai condenses the passage of time and the presence of nature within a small vessel resonates with Choji’s ongoing exploration of line, space, and the subtle fluctuations of human emotion.
The exhibition takes place at Omiya Kadomachi, a space where the everyday rhythms of work, shopping, and dining naturally intersect. Amid the liveliness of the station district, the presentation offers a moment to pause—a quiet interval in which the mind can gently settle.
Rendered with the soft luminosity and depth of mineral pigments, Choji’s paintings evoke the atmosphere of a “quiet garden” within the flow of daily life. The exhibition also expands into a multi-sensory experience through food and sound. At SHABA, a limited-edition craft beer featuring an original label designed by the artist will be served during the exhibition, produced in collaboration with the local Hikawa Brewery.
On May 4, a special performance by Beni-tsuki—a collaborative unit formed by Beniko Choji and musician Tsukiko Nakamura—will take place, bringing together visual art and sound.
Visitors are invited to spend time with the works, to taste, to listen, and simply to be present. In this space where the senses gently intersect, the exhibition offers a moment of quiet reflection.
Artist Statement
I was born in Omiya, raised in Omiya, and continue to live in this city I deeply love.
Omiya is home to a bonsai culture that has been cultivated over many years. In bonsai—where the passage of time and the presence of nature are reflected within a small vessel—I sense the quiet beauty of this place.
Omiya Kadomachi is a place where many people pass through in their daily lives—for work, medical visits, or meals. Amid the busyness of everyday life, I hope these works offer a moment to pause, allowing the mind to become a little calmer.
The soft light and deep colors of mineral pigments, like bonsai themselves, quietly accompany daily life. If these works can offer even a small sense of comfort or a gentle hint of hope, I would be truly happy.
Beniko Choji
Special Event
May 4, 16:00–
“Beni-tsuki” Performance
Beniko Choji × Tsukiko Nakamura (musician)
• Special collaboration: A limited-edition craft beer featuring an original label designed by Beniko Choji will be served during the exhibition in collaboration with Hikawa Brewery (available at SHABA).