NANZUKA has opened SHUWATCH with U, a group exhibition celebrating the 60th anniversary of Ultraman at PARCO MUSEUM TOKYO. Running through August 3, the exhibition explores the cultural legacy of the iconic Japanese superhero through contemporary art, bringing together paintings, sculptures, and three-dimensional works by an international roster of artists.
The exhibition honors the landmark television series created by Tsuburaya Productions in 1966 under the direction of Eiji Tsuburaya, widely recognized as the “God of Tokusatsu.” Rather than revisiting the character through nostalgia alone, participating artists reinterpret Ultraman as a lasting source of artistic inspiration and creative identity.
Featured artists include Stickymonger, Jean Jullien, Pex Pitakpong, Roby Dwi Antono, Ryunosuke Okazaki, and others, each presenting original works that reflect their personal relationship with the legendary hero.
Artists reflect on Ultraman’s enduring creative influence
For many contributors, Ultraman extends beyond childhood entertainment, representing an enduring influence on their artistic practice and imagination.
“This work is a small altar to my childhood memories of Ultraman. I saw him not merely as a hero I watched, but as the light that quietly sculpted my imagination,” said Roby Dwi Antono.
“Our yearning for Ultraman does not end as a mere memory,” added Ryunosuke Okazaki. “The physical gestures that entered my body through childhood play are still repeated within my creative process today. I want to treat that repetition not as simple nostalgia, but as a continuous duration of prayer.”
Accordingly, the exhibition presents diverse artistic interpretations that connect contemporary visual culture with one of Japan’s most influential pop culture icons. Paintings, sculptures, and installation-based works collectively examine Ultraman’s continuing relevance across generations of artists.
Exclusive merchandise accompanies the anniversary exhibition
In addition to the artworks, NANZUKA has released a curated selection of exclusive merchandise created to commemorate the exhibition. The products extend the anniversary celebration while reinforcing Ultraman’s ongoing presence within contemporary art and design culture.
SHUWATCH with U remains on view at PARCO MUSEUM TOKYO in Shibuya through August 3.
Venue:
PARCO MUSEUM TOKYO
Shibuya PARCO 4F
15-1 Udagawacho, Shibuya
Tokyo 150-0042, Japan