Nobutaka Katsuyama is a Buddhist monk and artist born and raised at Jogonin Temple in Azuchi, Shiga Prefecture. He depicts the figure of a person striving to become someone else through unstable forms, exploring the desire for recognition and the search for salvation while still grappling with attachments. In addition to exhibiting his works both in Japan and internationally, he is also involved in the operation of the Jogonin International Art Festival.
Nobutaka Katsuyama
Nobutaka Katsuyama
Japan
⬤ Works in 2026
Failure (mixed media / 1 m × 1 m)
⬤ Message
I was born and raised at this Jogonin Temple and became a monk. However, rather than letting go of my attachments, I want to be recognized by the world for my own unique works. I seek salvation in art—a solace that Buddhism cannot provide, a salvation that comes while still grappling with attachments.
We live in an age where everyone tries to express themselves and confirm their own value through the reactions of others. While seeking individuality, we end up entrusting that value to others. I myself have not been able to build my own unique style or the life I envisioned, and while I drift along in laziness, I cannot let go of my need for approval.
In "Failure," I depict the figure of someone trying to become something, using unstable forms. I, too, who create these works, want someone to acknowledge this pathetic part of me.
⬤ Biography
Born in 1980 at Azuchi Jogonin Temple in Shiga Prefecture.
Graduated from Kyoto City University of Arts, Faculty of Fine Arts, Department of Printmaking, in 2003 (Kyoto).
2008–2016 Solo Exhibition / Gallery Ami-Kanoko (Osaka)
2009 Solo Exhibition "Golden Memories" raven studio & gallery (USA)
2009 Group Exhibition "Midori-ten" Space Mikuraato (Osaka)
2010 Solo Exhibition "A sense of Evanescence" IMALY FINE ART (USA)
2010 Solo Exhibition "Azuchi Momoyama" Hyatt Regency (Osaka)
2010 Group Exhibition "Exchanges: Ithaca Osaka" The InkShop PrintMaking Center (USA)
2012-2014 WORK 21st Century Art Festival (South Korea)
2014 Solo Exhibition / Gyodong Art Museum (South Korea)
2021-2026 Group exhibition "Hanbiraki" (Osaka)
Public Collection / Kyoto City University of Arts (Kyoto)