Utopia is the concept of an ideal and perfect nation sought by humankind that originated from the book, “Utopia”, by 16th-century novelist Thomas More. In this pure land on Earth, all affairs and things are immaculate and without defects, and people live in happiness and harmony without dispute, distress, or worry. The notion of “utopia” is also similar to Never-never Land written by 18th-century Scottish author J.M. Barrie in the fairytale, Peter Pan. The children who live in Never-never land never grow up, can fly anywhere they want, and enjoy a free and fun childhood. Without a doubt, the world portrayed beneath the paintbrush of Japanese artist KAWAI Haruko is a beautiful fairy tale-like utopia for children.

Born in Nagoya in 1968, KAWAI Haruko graduated from Aichi University of the Arts with a degree in Fine Arts. She has always resided in the rural village setting of Nagoya. Such a simple, quiet environment nurtured Kawai to embrace sincerity and be forever pure at heart. Though over half a century old, her painting technique is succinct and unadorned, her colors rich and flamboyant, each of her drafts like an extremely short fable filled to the brim with boundless childlike delight and philosophic theory. Her works consist solely of innocent children and animals, such as cute cats, dogs, and penguins, all frolicking in the sweet, candy-colored scenery among a warm and joyful environment. Occasionally, fantastic creatures from other worlds will pay a visit. We cannot help but wonder whether modern people, having become greedy, unscrupulous, and neglectful of nature in their pursuit of technological development, have not forgotten the purity and beauty of their inner selves.

What KAWAI has created is a world without adults, real pressure, nor growing pains - a land of fantasy called childhood that shuns the real world forever; a kind of simplicity and kind-heartedness that humans yearn for. There, she converses daily with nature and animals. At night, she views the distant stars blanketing the sky above. Her works create a beautiful realm, embodying a simplicity and benevolence that all humans innately crave. When observing her works, there seems to exist a magic that inadvertently draws viewers into a cheerful paradise brimming with a sense of contentment.

Soka Art is privileged to be hosting “A Fable of Utopia - KAWAI Haruko Solo Exhibition”, the first solo exhibition by the artist. The exhibition will be held for 4 weeks from February 25 to March 25, 2023 in Taiwan. Thirty pieces of her comforting artworks will be on display. Starting on Saturday February 25th at 4pm, Soka Art Taipei will be holding the opening ceremony for the exhibition. We sincerely invite you to walk into the utopian world of KAWAI Haruko and find the lost innocence and happiness.