Artist Recommendations by Kiyoshi Yamamoto for B-Open
It's B-Open in Bergen this weekend, and we’re excited to highlight the talented Kiyoshi Yamamoto, whose dynamic and dedicated artistry has earned him notable recognition. He also shares recommendations for fellow artists to explore during the event.
Kiyoshi has gained acclaim for his diverse projects and extensive exhibition activity, both nationally and internationally. His work transcends traditional boundaries, encompassing textile art, material-based objects, painting, graphics, installations, and performance art. Influenced by his cultural background, Kiyoshi blends elements from both Japanese and Brazilian traditions. His works often reference cultural heritage, popular culture, and the fashion industry, as exemplified by his series titled “Sketches for a tapestry/Reklame,” created in collaboration with Atelie.
"Sketching is more than a process. Sometimes it’s a beginning, sometimes an end." — Kiyoshi Yamamoto
Through his art, he addresses philosophical and political themes, highlighting perceived injustices in contemporary society. Born in 1982 in Japan and raised in Brazil, Kiyoshi now resides and works in Bergen. He is educated at the Bergen Academy of Art and Design, the School of Fine Arts in Rio de Janeiro, and Central Saint Martins in London. His solo exhibitions include notable venues such as Kunstnerforbundet (2022), Trøndelag Center for Contemporary Art (2021), Trafo Kunsthall (2021), Rohsska Museum (2021), KUBE Museum in Ålesund (2020), and Hå Gamle Prestegård (2020). Upcoming exhibitions will take place at Bomullsfabrikken in Arendal and the Bodø Biennale. Kiyoshi has also participated in several group exhibitions, including those at KODE Museum (2022), Galleri Format (2021 and 2016), Stavanger Kunstmuseum (2021), and 3,14 Kunsthall (2020).
His works are included in collections of prominent institutions such as the Nordenfjeldske Kunstindustrimuseum, KODE Art Museums, the Norwegian Embassy in Brasília, DNB Kunstforening, Oslo Municipality, and Bergen Municipality. Kiyoshi also teaches at the Faculty of Art, Music, and Design at the University of Bergen, specializing in color, and has been a guest lecturer at various art schools across Norway. Kiyoshi currently serves as a board member at Kunstnernes Hus (2021-2024) and as Deputy Leader of the Norwegian Textile Artists Association (2019-2023). He was also a member of the National Jury in 2020-2021.
As part of his participation in B-Open, Kiyoshi highlights three fellow artists:
“I’d like to shine a spotlight on three artists I highly recommend:
Anngjerd Rustand, who recently released a captivating poetry book. Open studio on saturday, september 21st, from 12.00 to 17.00
Mari Norddahl, showcasing exquisite textile work at the annual exhibition currently on display at K.U.K Gallery in Trondheim. Open studio on saturday, september 21st, from 12.00 to 17.00
Aurora Solberg, known for her striking art featured on the light rail in Bergen (unfortunately could not participate this year)
Explore and discover over 130 talented artists during B-Open this weekend! For further details and to plan your art-filled weekend, download the official program and read more on b-open.no.
