Upper Playground

In anticipation of his imminent clothing line release with Upper Playground on August 1, and in celebration of his new book "Shiganist," Usugrow has rallied the book’s contributors to action. Together, these five artists are taking over the walls of the FIFTY24SF Gallery and tearing down the house. True to the meaning behind “Shingan” - those who create based on visions spurred by the mind’s eye and those who are not affected by the opinions and expectations placed on them by the outside world - USUGROW, MOZYSKEY, TOSHIKAZU NOZAKA, BENE and JUN KANEKO are driven by the pure passion to create.

The work being presented on May 7th is a testament to those who live life for the love of art. From body art to street art, these young men have explored every aspect of the creative world. They have fought passionately for the right to express what the mind’s eye has shown them and have succeeded at every turn. Encumbered by the weight of societal expectations, they defy the prescribed life path and valiantly pursue the life of the “Shinganist.” Bringing us art born from passion, a harmonious blend of various culture’s aspects absorbed over time that still reflects a style inherent to Japan, this show will be one of a kind.

“SHINGANIST” opens May 7, 2009 from 7 to 9 PM.
FIFTY24SF Gallery
248 Fillmore Street
San Francisco, CA 94117

*****UPDATE 05.18.09*****

Check out some photos from the show...