I.F. Gallery proudly presents Between Worlds, a landmark solo exhibition by Japanese sculptor Akio Ohmori and the first concurrent showcase across our Hong Kong and Singapore gallery. This exhibition presents the core of Ohmori’s honest desire for his sculpture to not simply occupy, but inhabit space.

“The greatest appeal of sculpture lies in the fact that you can physically touch a phantom.” – Akio Ohmori

Ohmori’s practice is rooted in close observation and craft. Meticulously studying anatomy, bone structure and stories of creatures across cultures, he creates animal forms, both natural and mythical that breathe – as if created by a divine hand. His sculptures, usually made in natural wood, seek to bring new life to once living material.

Ohmori not only considers the structural anatomy of animals, but also movement. In traditional animal sculptures, birds remain perched on their stands, and fish suspended above their bases – stripped of freedom. Ohmori leverages material to reclaim a sense of dynamism that convinces viewers of their presence and belonging, using mirrors to allow his birds weightless flight; glass becomes a liquid expanse for drifting scales. His use of these materials is about creating a space where the subject can feel most at ease and come alive.

Ohmori’s exploration of space also takes a more geographical context in this exhibition. Singapore lives in his memory as a place of encounters beyond art fairs: particularly his encounter with a babirusa at the Night Safari which inspired his piece Live to Die – Babirusa, which he created after returning to Japan. While the artist has yet to visit Hong Kong, in 2020 Ohmori created special commemorative items for the 35th anniversary of Hong Kong SOGO. With hundreds of these pieces now scattered throughout the city, he feels as though a part of him already resides there.

Between Worlds represents both arrival and return. For some, this is a homecoming, for others this is exploration into a distant yet familiar world. This exhibition is an invitation to witness the moment when imagination takes physical form. Ohmori's creatures don't just occupy space - they claim their rightful place in the world.