NAOYA began his artistic career in Japan by assisting his father, Nagae Rokuya, a
major figurative sculptor who worked in wood. Nurturing his creativity in this
familial context, NAOYA soon cultivated his own style and creative concepts,
shaping representational figures out of wood and later bronze and FRP (Fiberglass
Reinforced Plastic) that express his own philosophical worldview.
NAOYA populates the imaginary world that he designs, which he calls
POLYKANTEN, with fairy-like children, animals with human personalities, and
animistic goddesses. The creatures are all related, he says, although each one has
its own reason for being. The monochromatic figures, painted entirely in white and
made of FRP, stare at viewers with curious and blank expressions, begging for
questions about the fantastical worlds they inhabit. Believing in the possibility and
potential of multiple universes, NAOYA creates these characters from another
world to visit with us here on Earth.
Selected Awards and Exhibitions
2018 Art Miami, FL
2015 Scope Miami Beach, Onishi Gallery
2014 Solo Exhibition, Onishi Gallery, New York
Selected Public Collections
Kawasaki City Museum | Japan
Seto City Museum | Japan
Daikanyama DG Building | Japan