Shiro Utafusa 歌房史朗

Born 1983, Japan

Shiro Utafusa is a contemporary Japanese artist whose practice explores hope, spiritual journeys, universal love, and humanity’s relationship with nature. His colourful, dreamlike paintings invite viewers into imagined worlds shaped by optimism, connection, and a sense of wonder.

Drawing from traditional Japanese aesthetics while embracing a contemporary sensibility, Shiro incorporates materials such as gold leaf and elements gathered from nature into his practice. Rooted in years of artistic exploration and the discipline of Zen, his works evoke a quiet spiritual presence, something that gently emerges beyond what is immediately visible.

Two distinct bodies of work form the foundation of his practice. His “Kurukuruatama” series follows thirteen recurring characters who journey through different worlds, bringing smiles to people and animals they encounter. Through vivid landscapes, sunflowers and scenes of movement, the series explores ideas of hope, love and connection.

His dragon works reveal a more spiritual dimension of his practice. Created with a deep respect for nature, these works combine Japanese traditions with Western painting techniques, often incorporating gold leaf and natural materials to express an unseen relationship between the spiritual and natural worlds.

Shiro believes in creating works that extend beyond the visible, allowing viewers to experience his paintings through both imagination and feeling. His works have been exhibited internationally and are held in private collections.



ARTISTIC JOURNEY

  • Began painting after studying fashion design at the age of 19
  • Graduated in 2007 and travelled to Australia, continuing to paint while travelling
  • Moved to Bali in 2009, where he learned the foundations of painting
  • Continued developing his artistic practice in Singapore, Italy and other locations
  • Transitioned to oil painting in 2011
  • Currently works as a full-time artist

SELECTED SERIES

  • Kurukuruatama Series — Thirteen characters journeying around the world, bringing smiles to people and animals
  • Dragon Series — Spiritually inspired works exploring nature and Japanese tradition through Western painting techniques, gold leaf and natural materials

Selected Solo Exhibitions

2026 - Ginza Mitsukoshi, Tokyo, Japan — In collaboration with COPLU
2024 - Ginza Mitsukoshi, Tokyo, Japan
2023 - Ginza Mitsukoshi, Tokyo, Japan
2020 - Pavilion Mall, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
2015 - Jorry Factory, Okayama, Japan
2014 - Matsugaoka Gallery, Yamagata, Japan
2012 - Chayamachi Gallery, Osaka, Japan

Selected Group Exhibitions

2025 - Art Jakarta, Jakarta, Indonesia
2025 - Affordable Art Fair, Singapore
2023 - Hotel Art Fair, Taipei, Taiwan
2022 - Affordable Art Fair, Singapore
2022 - Art Expo Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
2019 - Affordable Art Fair, Singapore
2019 - Art Expo Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
2019 - Affordable Art Fair, Hong Kong
2018 - Affordable Art Fair, Singapore
2016 - Tohoku Rokkonsai, Japan
2014 - Ginza Mitsukoshi, Tokyo, Japan
2014 - Asia Contemporary Art Show, Taiwan
2013 - Tokyo Design Week, Japan
2013 - GEISAI, Tokyo, Japan
2012 - Tokyo Design Week, Japan