Gallery Reception: Len Makabe

The Frederick Harris Gallery invites Members to an evening of discourse over complimentary wine and canapés.

Raised by a skilled oil painter, Makabe's artistic journey began with the brush but pivoted unexpectedly to sculpture during his studies at the Tokyo University of the Arts.

"When I entered art college, my father advised me to study sculpture in order to become a painter," he recalls.

This crucial moment launched a career that has seen Makabe craft metal art for the monster film Pulgasari, collaborate with Butoh dancer Goro Namikawa at World Expo 88 and host the Monster Tea Ceremony at Chicago’s G-Fest.

Whether it's through fantastical exhibitions or sculptures like Cardinal, which he presented at the Vatican, he continues to weave together the natural and the imagined in ways that captivate and inspire.

Makabe previously exhibited at the Club in 2018. 

Artworks are available for purchase through Member Services. 

Moment I realized I wanted to become an artist.  
Painting alongside my dad. But it was in art college that I fell in love with sculpture.

What I would tell my 20-year-old self.  
Read more, have empathy for others and take responsibility for your actions.

My perfect creative environment.  
A large plot of land with a studio and warehouse.

Artist, living or dead, I’d most like to share a meal with.  
Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Gaetano Giulio Zumbo, Salvador Dalí, Katsushika Hokusai, Ito Jakuchu, Unkei and Rudolf Steiner.

Gallery Committee Reflections

Len Makabe’s application highlighted his masterful approach to sculpting organic forms, seamlessly blending observations of natural materials with modern design. His interplay utilizing metal with themes on nature creates a striking contrast between fluid, hand-carved textures and structured geometric elements, evoking a sense of balance and transformation. His works invite viewers to reflect on the connection between nature and human craftsmanship and offer a unique exhibit experience for our members.

Gallery Exhibition