it may be too personal | Tanaka Tomomi

May 9 – August 19, 2025

Moderne Gallery is proud to present it may be too personal | Tanaka Tomomi, a solo exhibition of works by Japanese ceramicist Tanaka Tomomi.

it may be too personal marks Tomomi’s first solo exhibition in the United States.

“Sometimes I have the feeling that joy, anger, sadness, or some other emotion is coming out of the bottom of my stomach. I want to convey something, or I want to do something, but it may be too personal, or I may not be able to express it well in words. I put these feelings into my work.”

About Tanaka Tomomi

Tanaka Tomomi specializes in intricate sculptures, crafted with meticulous layers of clay lamellas affixed to a hand-built clay core. This technique evolved from a spontaneous moment of inspiration when Tomomi found herself captivated by a piece of flattened clay.

During the early stages of her development, Tomomi described feeling an almost frantic need to express her suppressed emotions through the medium of clay. She started by attaching thin, delicate lamellas to simple, spherical cores. Subsequently, form has always been secondary to the process.

As Tomomi delved deeper into her craft, she began experimenting with a range of core shapes and lamella sizes. The organic, flowing forms reminiscent of waves, limbs, and waists emerged as she played with pulling and constricting the core forms. Thus, representing a transformational period in Tomomi’s work. Signaling the dawn of more complex, immersive sculptures.

Tanaka Tomomi’s Art and Creations

Tanaka Tomomi relates to her art as a vessel for her inner turbulence. A mix of emotions constantly whirls inside her, seeking expression. The evolving shapes in her art symbolize a turbulent sea of feelings, sometimes lying dormant and at other times, ominously wriggling. As she has progressed, Tomomi has begun to view her creations not merely as a means of expressing internal landscapes but also as entities bearing life. This perspective ushered in the use of larger lamellas. Thus, bringing a newfound vitality to her pieces. She hopes this will convey a profound message to those who view her work.

Tomomi admits to struggling with verbal expression, often finding it challenging to articulate her feelings quickly.  Yet, through the tactile and time-consuming process of crafting her sculptures, she finds a clear voice, and allows the art to speak her truth vividly and eloquently.

In the world of contemporary clay, Tanaka Tomomi stands as a beacon of innovation. Continuously evolving her technique and breathing life into her work. Her journey portrays a courageous dialogue with one’s inner self. Unspoken emotions are transformed into her sculptures, each providing a deep emotional landscape which offers a true glimpse into her mind.