Yushin

Yushin was awarded First Runner-Up in the juried open call exhibition Art Incubation Series 16: The Art of Sho II, held at the Tenri Cultural Institute, New York, from April 22–28, 2025. Curated by Motoichi Adachi and Kyoko Sato, the exhibition celebrated contemporary interpretations of traditional Japanese calligraphy.

The accompanying documentary video captures Yushin’s evocative calligraphy performance at Elizabeth Street Garden in NoLIta, New York. Established in 1991 on a formerly vacant city-owned lot, the Garden has served as a beloved green sanctuary in Lower Manhattan, known for its blend of public art, historic sculptures, and community events. Despite years of legal battles and city development plans aiming to replace it with affordable housing, the Garden was fiercely protected by local advocates. Cultural figures such as Patti Smith, Robert De Niro, and filmmaker Jim Jarmusch joined the community’s persistent efforts to preserve the space. Their activism, along with widespread public support, helped safeguard this unique urban oasis—making Yushin’s performance not only an artistic expression, but also a tribute to the resilience of community and culture.