Jiro Nagase

Jiro Nagase (born 1975, Osaka, Japan) is a contemporary Japanese artist renowned for his innovative work in sculpture, particularly using aluminum and mixed media to explore themes of form, tension, and spatial relationships. Nagase’s practice draws inspiration from traditional Japanese aesthetics, such as the minimalism of Zen and the dynamic arrangements of Ikebana, while engaging with modern industrial materials and processes. His sculptures, often characterized by sleek, reflective surfaces and intricate constructions, challenge viewers to reconsider the interplay between object and environment. 

Nagase studied fine arts at Kyoto City University of Arts, where he developed a fascination with material transformation and structural balance. After graduating in 1998, he began exhibiting in Japan, gaining recognition for his ability to merge craftsmanship with conceptual depth. His work has been featured in solo and group exhibitions across Japan and internationally, notably at Nonaka-Hill Gallery in Los Angeles, where his solo show JIRO NAGASE (November 23, 2024 – January 31, 2025) showcased his recent explorations in aluminum-based sculptures. Nagase’s art is held in private collections and has been presented at prestigious art fairs, including Art Basel Hong Kong and Frieze Seoul.

In addition to his sculptural work, Nagase collaborates with other artists and designers, as seen in his project wana with Moe Watanabe in 2023. His solo exhibitions, such as ANW! at Utushiki (2023) and Hakujitu (2023), often incorporate interactive workshops, reflecting his commitment to engaging audiences directly with his creative process. Nagase continues to live and work in Osaka, where he maintains a studio and actively participates in the local art scene.