New Spacious Gallery “Nudge Field” Debuts in Shinjuku, Managed by Biscuit Gallery and AWASE
A brand-new expansive gallery named “nudge field” is preparing to open its doors in the bustling district of Shinjuku, Tokyo, in the upcoming spring of 2025. This exciting development in Tokyo’s art scene is the product of a partnership between the biscuit gallery, which is relocating from Shibuya’s vibrant Matsuo Bunkamura Street, and the freshly established AWASE gallery. Situated just a short three-minute walk from Shinjuku Station, the gallery will be housed on a renovated floor within a historic building, encompassing approximately 50 tsubo or around 165 square meters. The space has been meticulously designed with three distinct exhibition floors by Riku Matsui from AWASE gallery, collaborating with architects Kenta Seki and Kosuke Nakamura.
The strategic location and innovative approach to gallery space at “nudge field” are predicted to position it as a prominent venue for art enthusiasts and collectors alike. Since its inauguration in March 2021, biscuit gallery has showcased the works of over 200 emerging artists, garnering significant support both locally and internationally. Approaching its fifth year in 2025, the gallery is gearing up to relocate to broaden its global impact and achieve its mission. The gallery’s new director, Yukako Atsuchi, aims to elevate the exhibition environment and fortify its operational infrastructure with this move.
Regarding the relocation, a representative from biscuit gallery emphasized the decision’s alignment with their mission of “Global Action” and proactive international expansion in response to evolving circumstances. This strategic move is seen as the next phase of the gallery’s journey, shaping a new chapter of growth and collaboration by teaming up with AWASE gallery for expanded global outreach.
AWASE gallery, spearheaded by architect Riku Matsui and artist Kohei Yamada, establishes its base at “nudge field.” Yamada oversees the annual exhibition agenda, interweaving solo and group exhibitions focused on visual art. Collaboratively, Matsui infuses architectural nuances and insights from various disciplines into the programming, fostering an environment where diverse media cultures intersect, giving rise to fresh value.
The burgeoning connection between biscuit gallery and AWASE gallery blossomed from their shared participation in a seminal group exhibition and blossomed into a symbiotic relationship, bolstered by subsequent solo showcases. The underlying ethos of biscuit gallery, which actively champions emerging artists, aligns seamlessly with the curatorial vision aimed for by Yamada. This complementary approach emphasizes effective space utilization, and collaborative opportunities like group exhibitions, resonating harmoniously with their joint endeavor at “nudge field.”
The shared third exhibition space, “on,” forms a conduit connecting the unique exhibition realms of both galleries. It will function as a versatile platform for a diverse array of activities, from art exhibitions and architectural presentations to children’s workshops, collaborative projects with local communities, artist support programs, and more. Additionally, biscuit gallery and AWASE gallery will coalesce their efforts to present joint programs, starting with a mutual presence at the upcoming ‘ART OSAKA’ art fair in June.
Reflecting on the impending move to Shinjuku, Yukako Atsuchi expressed eagerness to embark on new initiatives beyond mere exhibitions, fostering an interactive space in tandem with AWASE gallery and visitors. Kohei Yamada’s foray into the artistic realm was inspired by an initial focus on “landscape,” catalyzing a profound interest in nature, urban landscapes, and architectural elements that shape cities. Their collective journey underscores the exploration of contemporary frameworks and a commitment to reimagining shared spaces through creative partitions and perspectives.
Anticipating a fusion of art exhibitions, architectural showcases, and collaborative creations, Riku Matsui emphasized the coalescence of artists and architects in enriching the gallery’s varied projects. The shared space acts as a crucible for innovative endeavors, laying the groundwork for a future that transcends structural confines. The accumulation of diverse activities within this space is poised to leave a lasting imprint on the evolution of the gallery’s future trajectory.