Toriyama Shota is a sculptor who expresses the romance of ancient times through the motif of dinosaurs. In this exhibition, he unveils his latest works created using the nerikomi (colored clay blending) technique. The layering of different clays evoke imagery of the geological strata which mark the passing of hundreds of millions of years, reflecting the memories and time woven by life itself. Cracks and fissures resulting from the internal molding process create rich textures reminiscent of scales, muscle, and skin, giving each of the hollow forms their own dynamic vitality. Toriyama’s works, brimming with a life force that seems to capture the explosive moment of a roar or the gentle sound of breathing, awaken the viewer’s imagination and inspire new stories. We invite you to come and experience CLAY BEAT - where the power of the earth resonates with the vastness of time.
Toriyama Shota
Born in Sayama City, Saitama Prefecture, in 1991 and graduated from the Human Product Course in the Department of Design at Tokyo Polytechnic University’s Faculty of Arts, after which he became active in the field of product design, garnering numerous awards and selections in design competitions. In 2025, Toriyama completed the Ceramics Course within the Design Department’s Advanced Program at Aichi Prefectural Seto Technical High School and began pursuing ceramic art in earnest. Creating three-dimensional works using the nerikomi technique, the artist develops a unique sculptural style featuring motifs such as dinosaurs and other living creatures.
For me, dinosaurs are beings that ignite boundless imagination. The layers of clay—built up through the nerikomi technique—symbolize geological strata and the passage of eons, and it is from this that I carve out the forms of life. In my work, I seek to sculpt more than just a dinosaur; I want to create expressions that allow the viewer to imagine the actual creature’s situation and their story about to unfold. I hope that viewers will perceive their own narrative and enjoy a unique dialogue with each piece.
Toriyama Shota