[ARTIST SPOTLIGHT] TAISUKE YAMADA - EFFORT DISAPPEARS IN A BUBBLE

Nepenthes NY set up the Artist Spotlight to delve further into the work showcased at the store. In this special series, we interview the artists involved with the show. We ask them questions about their art, the exhibition, and what New York means to them.

This time, we are featuring New York-based artist Taisuke Yamada, whose exhibit "Effort Disappears In A Bubble" is running in-store now. 

Please tell us a bit about your background. Where are you from? What does New York mean to you?

I grew up in Chiba, Japan. I remember Tokyo Disneyland (which is in Chiba) and a shopping mall called LaLaport were famous dating spots between my friends

For me, New York is the shiniest place in the world while also full of ugliness and freshness. I’m attracted to that energy. It’s the one and only place that carries fake and real at the same time. New York is not only the place I throw away rubbish, but also the place throws rubbish on me as well.

Tell us a bit about your process.

Half of works for this show were made with this technique called "photogram" (photography made without camera). I’ve spit various type of liquids such as saliva and seltzer water onto film or silver gelatin paper to create these images.

Is there a message or narrative that you would like to communicate through your art?

Your spit could take someone’s life by infecting them with the virus. It can also grow a beautiful plant from random seeds. I was curious about the idea of how one thing could lead to another.

Is there an element of art you enjoy working with most? Why?

I like tasks that are not repetitive. I enjoy forms of art because possibilities are infinite (though there are rules). It’s hard for me to focus on one single thing in this stimulative society.

Please tell us how you became involved with Nepenthes NY.

My friend Takashi does pattern making at Nepenthes. He introduced me to you guys. Since we’ve worked at the same restaurant, he's been such a great support for my work. Much love and respect to him.

How do you source your inspiration? Where do you find the creative drive to continue making work?

Always doubt what's "normal”. I also enjoy biking around the city without purpose.