Hagino Noriko, Uchidashi Silver Water Jar, 2014, silver, 6 1/4 × 6 × 6 in. (16 × 15 × 15 cm)

Heated Colors, Hammered Forms: Female Metal Artists of Japan
July 10 – August 22, 2025
16 East 79th Street, NYC

Onishi Gallery is proud to spotlight the pioneering contributions of women to a traditionally male-dominated realm of kogei—metalwork once closely tied to the samurai—in their new summer exhibition, Heated Colors, Hammered Forms: Female Metal Artists of Japan.

Although metals are especially hard to handle, shape, and decorate, the five featured artists have each devoted a lifetime to the medium, using it to produce masterpieces that are every bit as expressive and beautiful as work in less obstinate materials such as clay or textile.

The exhibition features masterful creations by Osumi Yukie, Oshiyama Motoko, Hagino Noriko, Okamoto Yoshiko, and Otsuki Masako. Working in gold, silver, platinum, copper, lead, and unique Japanese alloys, these artists employ techniques such as casting, chiseling, hammering, and overlay. While each artist brings a distinct personal mode of expression to her work, all are united in their embrace and deep commitment to the time-honored traditions of Japanese metalcraft.

They invite you to experience these contemporary masterpieces for yourself this summer!

To learn more,  click here.