The pandemic and the new lifestyle derived from it, which has led us to live the whole day at home, has had repercussions and effects in many areas including the art world. Artists all over the world have had to come to terms with restricted environments, trying to continue creating even in the absence of external input. Some have failed, others have succeeded in creating masterpieces, just like Chiharu Shiota. 

The Berlin-based Japanese artist whose work we have been following for some time is best known for her huge installations made of red, black and white threads that fill entire halls and rooms in galleries and buildings. Not being able to create such works, Chiharu was forced to deal with more limited spaces, such as her home, and focus her creative flair on something smaller. This is how she came up with the idea for “Living Inside”, Chiharu Shiota’s solo exhibition at the Galerie Templon in Brussels until 24 July. 

The artist has worked on miniature furniture and furnishings, tying and uniting them with her classic red thread. The work aims to show and make the viewer reflect on the link between people and the places they live in, between us and the objects that are part of our everyday life and that we have rediscovered, changed or appreciated in recent times. 

Read also: “I hope …”, the latest installation by Chiharu Shiota

Tying everything together, however, Chiharu Shiota continues to explore a central theme of his artistic production, that of immobility, silence and the uncertainty of tomorrow. 

In addition to the small miniatures, the exhibition at Galerie Templon also features some drawings made by Chiharu during the lockdown period. Check out some photos from the exhibition below and follow the artist on Instagram so you don’t miss out on her upcoming works.