Kelly Akashi's Solo Exhibition 'Being as a Thing' at Ghebaly Gallery Explores Heritage Through Organic Sculptures

From November 12 to December 23, 2016, Ghebaly Gallery in Los Angeles showcased Kelly Akashi's solo exhibition titled 'Being as a Thing.' The collection highlighted her Japanese-American heritage, featuring works such as 'Be Me (Japanese-Californian Citrus),' a steel sculpture inspired by a fruit cultivated by a Japanese farmer during the 1970s. In pieces like 'At Rest' and 'Finger Figure,' bronze casts of Akashi’s hands were prominent. Additionally, six photograms displayed blown-glass objects on photographic paper. The 'Arrangement' sculptures combined cherrywood tables with glass orbs and plant elements, while 'Activity Table' showcased wax drippings, and 'Wall Candle (Tentacle)' bore scorch marks from the opening. ArtReview published coverage of the exhibition in January and February 2017.