Paris Luxembourg Gardens Solo Exhibition Report | A French Senate Cultural Event
Published date:
2026-08-19
Hawaii-based contemporary Ukiyo-e artist SHINGIIIIII held a solo exhibition at the Jardin du Luxembourg in Paris. His unique world, where the traditions of Ukiyo-e meet the light of Hawaii, captivated visitors from all over the world.
Dates: Friday, July 17 – Tuesday, July 28, 2026
Venue: Orangerie du Sénat (Jardin du Luxembourg)
Organizer: French Senate Cultural Program "L'Été du Jardin du Luxembourg 2026"
Patronage: Embassy of Japan in France (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
Supervision: Otowa Gallery
Management: Japan Promotion Association
A prestigious stage reserved for artists selected by the French Senate
The Jardin du Luxembourg is one of Paris's most iconic parks. It is not only a place of relaxation for Parisians but also one of the most prestigious cultural spaces in the city, hosting numerous events throughout the summer.
The exhibition was part of the French Senate's summer cultural program, "L'Été du Jardin du Luxembourg 2026," held at the historic Orangerie du Sénat within the park. As part of this program, which only features artists vetted by the Senate, Hawaii-based Japanese artist SHINGIIIIII presented his solo exhibition.
48 works weaving together Ukiyo-e and the light of Hawaii
The exhibition showcased 48 unique pieces in a sun-drenched venue, blending traditional Japanese aesthetics—such as Ukiyo-e, ink wash painting, and gold leaf—with the vibrant sunlight and tropical colors of Hawaii. As the title "SHINGISM: Ukiyo-e Tales" suggests, the works spun stories across various settings, from iconic Japanese landscapes like Mount Fuji to scenes of Hawaii and Paris.
Opening ceremony featuring commentary by a local art magazine editor and live painting
The opening ceremony was held on the evening of July 17. In the Parisian summer, the daylight lingers until nearly 10:00 PM. Under a clear, tropical-like sky, a large crowd gathered to enjoy the artwork with cold drinks in hand.
In a warm and welcoming atmosphere, the artist gave an opening address, followed by commentary from Thibault Josse, editor of a local art magazine, who provided insights to help guests appreciate the works on a deeper level. The audience listened intently as he discussed the relationship between tradition and modernity.
During the ceremony, SHINGIIIIII performed a live painting session. Attendees watched with great interest as the artwork took shape before their eyes.
Visitor feedback
- The colorful and vibrant paintings feel like a vision of the world seen through the eyes of a child. Wonderful!
- The blending of different themes allows our eyes and hearts to become one with the wonderful country of Japan. These works are so comforting.
- A beautiful harmony. I can feel the influence of Hokusai, but there is a unique touch that goes beyond that. Bravo!
- I have been a huge fan of Hawaii and its culture since I was a child, and I have always been drawn to its artistic expression. I was immediately inspired by the beauty of SHINGIIIIII's work and hope to purchase a piece someday.
- It is a great joy to have discovered SHINGIIIIII's work. It blends exoticism, Japanese delicacy, and mystery. I was also lucky enough to meet the artist in person!
- A wonderful exhibition that sits between tradition and modernity. As you look closely, you notice the tiny figures within the works. I take my hat off to the humor in them as well.
- The works reinterpret traditional Japanese expression in a pop, contemporary style, sometimes with a sense of humor. Through colors, seasons, and folklore, travel and dreams are intertwined. It was a wonderful discovery. Thank you!
- It felt as if I were being taken on a journey connecting Japan and Hawaii, via Paris. Thank you.
Spotlight from local media | The exhibition covered in Japan and France
The solo exhibition at this special venue was featured in various media outlets even before it opened.
Yahoo! News
―― SHINGIIIIII's work is gaining attention precisely within that context. By inheriting the composition and spirituality of ukiyo-e while fusing them with contemporary colors and narrative, his expression is being hailed by international collectors and curators as a "new form of ukiyo-e."
WWS channel
――SHINGIIIIII’s journey is more than just one artist’s success story; it is a symbol of Japanese contemporary art delivering new value to the world, and it is poised to attract even greater attention in the future.
Time Out Paris (The Paris edition of the global city guide "Time Out")
――His canvases are woven with the waves of the Pacific, lush landscapes, mystical sunrises and sunsets, and figures that seem to have stepped straight out of paradise.
"Modern Ukiyo-e" that transcends borders
Over the 12-day exhibition, nearly 1,000 people visited on weekends, with weekdays consistently seeing over 600 visitors, as many enjoyed this special summer showcase. Visitors came from a truly diverse range of countries and regions—including France, the UK, Hawaii, the US, Turkey, China, Taiwan, and Mexico—all showing deep interest in the tradition of Japanese Ukiyo-e and this "Modern Ukiyo-e" depicted through the new light of Hawaii.
The exhibition featured works by an artist with a multicultural background, capturing the hearts of visitors from all nationalities in the bustling, diverse city of Paris.
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