Copperplate Engraver Minako Kuroishi, Winner of the 'Ura-Otaru Montparnasse Special Prize,' to Hold First Hokkaido Solo Exhibition in Sapporo

Manubooks Co., Ltd. (Sapporo, Hokkaido) is pleased to announce the first solo exhibition in Hokkaido by copperplate engraver Minako Kuroishi, titled 'Umwelt - Respectively World -.' The exhibition will be held at Gallery & Shop Horse and Lion from Friday, June 5, to Wednesday, June 17, 2026. This exhibition showcases copperplate works created under the theme of 'Umwelt.' Notably, works printed on parchment—a material used for medieval European manuscripts—and collage works will be premiered in Hokkaido. All pieces will be available for purchase in both framed and sheet formats.

Exhibition Overview Exhibition Name: Minako Kuroishi Exhibition 'Umwelt - Respectively World -' Dates: June 5 (Fri) – June 17 (Wed), 2026 Artist Presence: June 14 (Sun) Hours: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Open daily during the period) Admission: Free Venue: Gallery & Shop Horse and Lion Address: 2F Igari Bldg, 1-10 Minami 22-jo Nishi 15-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido Organizer: Manubooks Co., Ltd.

Concept: The 'Unseen World' Beyond the 'Visible World' Copperplate engraving involves corroding metal plates with acid to engrave delicate lines and shadows. Through this unique medium, Minako Kuroishi expresses not only the 'visible world' perceived by various creatures but also the multi-layered 'unseen world' expanding behind it. The title 'Umwelt' refers to a concept proposed by German biologist Jakob von Uexküll in the early 1900s, suggesting that every living organism perceives its own unique time and space, living in a world distinct from others. We invite you to experience the presence of the creatures in her works as they exist within their respective worlds.

Exhibition Highlights ■ Display of Copperplate Prints on 'Parchment' A major feature of this exhibition is the use of parchment for copperplate prints. Parchment is a material made from processed animal skin, historically used for manuscripts in medieval Europe. It possesses a texture and presence distinct from plant-based paper. Printing on a material that once held life results in a more vivid expression. This combination of rare material and copperplate technique will be publicly exhibited for the first time in Hokkaido.

The Delicate World Created by Copperplates Copperplate engraving is a technique where metal plates are etched using acid. Kuroishi uses the dense lines and unique shadows born from this corrosion to depict a sense of diverse creatures coexisting in multiple layers within the same space. Visitors can enjoy the detailed expressions and hand-printed textures unique to this medium by viewing the works up close.

Artworks Available for Purchase Exhibited works will be available for sale. Each hand-printed copperplate work has subtle variations, giving it the charm of a unique piece despite being a print. These poetic works harmonize well with residential, retail, and office spaces. Individual and corporate collectors are welcome to inquire.

Art Book Sales at the Venue An A4 full-color, 24-page art book featuring the artist's works will be on sale to coincide with the exhibition. Price: 1,200 JPY (tax included). Produced by Manubooks Co., Ltd.

Artist Profile: Minako Kuroishi Born in Yamagata Prefecture. Graduated from Joshibi University of Art and Design Junior College and completed the printmaking research course at Musashino Art School. In 2025, she received the 'IAG AWARDS 2025 Ura-Otaru Montparnasse Special Prize.' This exhibition marks her first solo show in Hokkaido since receiving the award.