Mono-ha

Mono-ha (Japanese: もの派), translating to "School of Things," was an influential art movement that originated in Japan during the late 1960s, blossoming amidst the socio-political upheaval of the time. Artists associated with Mono-ha, such as Lee Ufan, Nobuo Sekine, Kishio Suga, and others, emerged mostly from Tokyo’s Tama Art University and were connected through their intellectual exchanges and academic backgrounds. Their work was a radical departure from traditional art forms, focusing instead on the interrelationships between natural and industrial materials, such as stone, steel, glass, and paper, often leaving these materials in their raw state to speak for themselves​​​​.

These artists sought to challenge conventional notions of art by prioritizing the physical and conceptual presence of materials over representational aesthetics. This approach allowed them to explore metaphysical concepts and the essence of objects, leading to a critical confrontation with Western modernism and a re-evaluation of the role of the artist and the artwork itself. Notably, Sekine's "Phase-Mother Earth" is often cited as a pivotal work that signified the inception of Mono-ha. It consisted of an earth cylinder formed by removing soil from a hole of the same dimensions, thus exploring the notion of negative and positive space​​.

Mono-ha gained significant attention in the United States when Blum & Poe gallery showcased the movement's art in a survey exhibition titled "Requiem for the Sun: The Art of Mono-ha" in 2012. The movement's ethos connected to the broader counterculture of the 1960s, as many of its members were involved in student protests, reflecting a deep intellectualism and a strong awareness of Japanese identity against the backdrop of global political tensions​​.

The art of Mono-ha is rare and often ephemeral, with many pieces being destroyed after exhibitions, which only adds to their allure and iconic status among collectors and art enthusiasts. The movement's legacy continues to inspire and evoke reflection, offering a unique lens through which to view the relationship between objects, space, and perception​​.

For collectors, auctioneers, and experts in art and antiques, Mono-ha represents a pivotal moment in art history that redefined the material and conceptual boundaries of artistic creation. To stay informed on new product sales, auction events, and updates related to Mono-ha, signing up for relevant newsletters is highly recommended. This subscription will be an essential resource for those interested in the intersection of art, history, and philosophy, as well as for those looking to acquire pieces from this seminal movement.