Interview
Ami and Kiyomaru Taménaga
Kiyomaru and Ami Taménaga © Studio Vanssay
The success of Galerie Taménaga is rooted in an artistic and family legacy that connects Japan and France. Ami and Kiyomaru Taménaga, as part of the third generation, could you tell us what makes your gallery unique ?
KT : Galerie Taménaga stands out for its dual Franco-Japanese heritage, serving as a cultural bridge between two of the world’s most dynamic artistic traditions. Our gallery showcases both modern masters who shaped the 20th century as well as contemporary artists who push and redefine the boundaries of artistic expression in the current day.
Each generation has engaged in dialogue with the one before it, shaping the gallery’s unique identity. By juxtaposing Eastern and Western aesthetics, the gallery asserts a Japanese sensibility that runs through its history and exhibitions.
AT : What makes our gallery unique in my view is that we are one of the oldest Japanese galleries in France. For over half a century, we have been dedicated to cultivating strong connections between Japanese and European artistic traditions. With galleries in both Japan and France, we are uniquely positioned to understand the deep relationship between these two cultures. Consequently, we strive to reflect this relationship through the selection of artists we represent.
Was taking over the gallery an obvious choice for you ?
KT : The decision to join Galerie Taménaga was deeply personal, shaped by a convergence of experiences. At the heart of this choice lies the Japanese concept of Ikigai—a reason for being that combines passion, vocation, and contribution to the world. Growing up in a family where art was both a profession and a way of life, I developed a profound appreciation for it. My journey also played a crucial role; I have explored the intersection of art and cultural exchange, further solidifying my vocation. These experiences now enable me to bring a fresh perspective to the gallery—preserving its prestigious heritage while adapting it to the evolving landscape of the art world.
AT : Taking over the gallery has always been a goal I aspired to. Growing up in a family passionate about art, I was constantly exposed to different forms of artistic expression from a young age. Every trip was an opportunity to visit museums and historical sites—everything was connected to art! I am deeply grateful for this privileged environment, which fostered my early passion for art and has guided me ever since.
In addition to showcasing modern artists, Kiyoshi Taménaga was deeply committed to giving contemporary artists international visibility. Is that still the case today ? What new challenges do you face ?
KT : This heritage remains the cornerstone of Galerie Taménaga’s mission. My grandfather, Kiyoshi Taménaga, sought to gain recognition for contemporary French artists well beyond their home country, showcasing figures such as Bernard Buffet and Paul Aïzpiri. This ambition was carried forward and expanded by my father, Tsugu Taménaga, who introduced a series of exhibitions fully dedicated to discovering young Japanese talents. He also spearheaded the opening of our gallery in Kyoto, Japan’s cultural capital, creating a unique space for emerging artists and collectors—both local and international.
AT : This commitment remains just as strong today. From the very inception of the gallery in Paris, my grandfather was dedicated to promoting contemporary artists on the international stage. My father, Tsugu Taménaga, later focused on increasing the visibility of young Japanese artists by showcasing their work in Paris. Today, we fully embrace this legacy while also striving to discover and support new French and international talents. We see this not as a challenge, but rather as an exciting opportunity.
Do you have a signature artwork? If so, could you tell us about it ?
KT : Among the artists we represent, Takehiko Sugawara holds a particularly special place for me. His work was featured in the first exhibition I organized upon joining the gallery, marking a key milestone in my journey.
Drawing upon traditional Japanese techniques, Sugawara works with washi paper, natural pigments, and gold and platinum leaf. What makes his work exceptional is his ability to preserve the essence of Japan’s cultural heritage while infusing it with a distinctly contemporary sensibility. His pieces will be showcased during Printemps Asiatique, where their resonance with the site's historic architecture will create a truly unique experience.
AT : Identifying a single defining work is not easy, as I believe there are several contenders. However, one of my favorite artists—whose work never fails to move me—is undoubtedly Takehiko Sugawara. His works, which we are presenting at this Printemps Asiatique, perfectly embody contemporary Japanese art, where artistic expression harmoniously merges with masterful material craftsmanship—exemplified by the piece Neagarimatsu. His distinctive gestural technique, combined with the strength of his materials, gives his work an immediately recognizable style.
Takehiko SUGAWARA - Neagarimatsu - 146 x 112 cm - Mixed media on washi paper mounted on panel
What was your latest artistic discovery or favorite ?
KT : It is almost impossible to choose a favorite among the artists we represent. However, a recent discovery has left a profound impression on me: the work of Maiko Kitagawa, who is currently preparing an exhibition for our Paris gallery.
Kitagawa’s medium—the dermatograph, a type of oil-based pastel—lends her works a distinctive aesthetic. Through the personification of animals, she weaves lyrical fables inspired by Japanese folklore. Her work brilliantly showcases the expressive power of monochrome, immersing us in her dreamlike universe.
AT : I have recently developed a deep fascination with Japanese artists working with lacquer, drawn to the extraordinary precision and meticulous techniques required to create these works. We recently organized a group exhibition in Kyoto to showcase this exceptional craftsmanship, and I was captivated by the artist’s ability to combine ancestral methods with remarkable precision, resulting in resolutely contemporary creations.
Kyosuke TCHINAI - Naissance de la lune - 90 x 180 cm - Mixed media on washi paper mounted on panel
Why did you want to participate in the 8th edition of Asia Week Paris in June 2025 ?
KT : Taking part in this 8th edition is a natural extension of our mission to serve as a cultural bridge between Asia and the West. The event’s emphasis on Asian art at this event deeply resonates with our gallery’s philosophy.
The exceptional setting—a historic pagoda adorned with Indian reliefs—provides an ideal backdrop for the exhibited works. For this edition, we have chosen to showcase Chen Jiang-Hong, Takehiko Sugawara, and Kyosuke Tchinai, whose distinctive styles will create a captivating visual dialogue for visitors.
AT : Printemps Asiatique is a prestigious showcase for Asian art, offering us a unique opportunity to present our artists to an audience of connoisseurs and institutions from around the world.
This year, we are featuring three artists: two Japanese artists—Takehiko Sugawara and Kyosuke Tchinai, alongside Chinese artist Chen Jiang-Hong. Although their styles and materials differ, each embodies a distinct aspect of our gallery’s vision. We hope visitors will enjoy their works in the magnificent setting of the Pagoda.
Website :
PARIS
18, AV. MATIGNON 75008 PARIS, FRANCE
+33 (0)1-42-66-61-94
TOKYO
7-5-4, GINZA, CHUO-KU, TOKYO, 104-0061 JAPAN
+81 (0)3-3573-5368
OSAKA
1-4-1, SHIROMI, CHUO-KU, OSAKA, 540-0001 JAPAN, HOTEL NEW OTANI ARCADE
+81 (0)6-6949-3434
KYOTO
265-7, KAMIHORITSUMECHO, HIGASHIYAMA-KU, KYOTO, 605-0991 JAPAN
+81 (0)75-532-3001