Key Facts
• June 20, 2025: Exhibition opens at TSUTAYA BOOKSTORE Kikuyo, ends June 29.
• Kohei Higashi, 41, uses newspapers to sculpt lifelike animal figures.
• Approximately 30 pieces displayed, including dolphins, coelacanths, and a 30 cm whale.
• Higashi began using newspapers as a material during his time as a kindergarten art instructor.
• Designs incorporate headlines and colors from newspaper prints, such as red for a rooster’s comb.
• Visitors can see live demonstrations from June 27 to 29.
• Animals feature local references like “Aso” and “Yamaga” to highlight Kumamoto.
• A family from Kumamoto City enjoyed creating a rabbit face with Higashi.
• Higashi aims to focus on “local creations” tied to Kumamoto.
Summary
Kohei Higashi, a sculptor from Kikuchi City, is showcasing his unique newspaper-based animal sculptures at TSUTAYA BOOKSTORE Kikuyo until June 29, 2025. The exhibition features around 30 lifelike pieces, including aquatic creatures like dolphins and coelacanths. Higashi, a graduate of Sojo University’s Faculty of Arts, began using newspapers as a material during his time as a kindergarten art instructor, valuing their accessibility. His designs creatively incorporate newspaper headlines and colors, such as red for a rooster’s comb. The exhibition also highlights Kumamoto through local references embedded in the sculptures. Visitors can enjoy live demonstrations from June 27 to 29, and families have expressed delight in engaging with Higashi’s art. Higashi emphasizes his commitment to creating works that reflect Kumamoto’s identity.
