MAMI SAKURAI & MASAO HATAYAMA

SPACE 1

Exhibition Dates : 17 February - 1 March 2026
Opening Reception : Wed 18 February 2026, 6:00 - 8:30pm

MAMI SAKURAI

Mamimun, a Tokyo-born muralist and pop artist, explores the interplay between language, identity, and visual culture. Her work transforms the aesthetics of Japanese characters into bold, pop-infused compositions, creating a distinctive visual language that transcends words and speaks to universal human experience. Central to her practice is the guiding principle,  “Everything important already exists within you,” alongside her signature message, “Be at -love pop peace!-”

Inspired by the origins and beauty of Japanese script, mamimun reinterprets letters as dynamic forms, infusing them with color and rhythm to evoke emotion beyond linguistic boundaries. A formative encounter with Melbourne’s Hosier Lane, where street art thrives as a living dialogue, shaped her vision to bring this spirit of immediacy and connection to Japan.

Through solo exhibitions, pop-up installations, and an ambitious mural project spanning all 47 prefectures, mamimun creates spaces where art becomes a sanctuary for the soul and a catalyst for joyful self-expression.

MASAO HATAYAMA
With the theme “Making the world happy through POP,” he has established ”New japanese pop art” by fusing traditional Japanese culture with contemporary pop culture. Centered on solo exhibitions, he is active in seven countries worldwide, expanding his practice across murals, design, and brand collaborations.   Rooted in the lineage of Japanese pop art, Masao Hatayama blends traditional visual sensibility with contemporary pop culture. Through bold colors and playful imagery, his work transforms everyday symbols into universally accessible icons.