Gallery by the Harbour will present Japanese illustrator Masao Takahata’s first solo exhibition in Hong Kong from 11 to 30 May 2017. The exhibition will showcase more than 20 original illustrations and silk prints that focus on bears. Limited edition products such as tote bags, t-shirts, sake cups, wooden brooches, and mini Japanese mascots specially designed for the exhibition will also be available for sale during the exhibition. Masao Takahata’s works are often inspired by subtle things in life, transforming ordinary objects into central elements of his works. They remind people to appreciate the loveliness of insignificant and often unnoticeable objects around them, and to capture the blissful moments in life. Creating with a fresh and simple style, he draws adorable animals like black bears, polar bears, kittens and common objects that keep your hearts infused with warmth and happiness. Born in 1986 in Japan, Masao Takahata works as an illustrator after graduating from the Tokyo Zokei University and Tama Art University. His works are rarely exhibited as individual art pieces and have previously made appearance in Japan and Taiwan. The current bear-themed exhibition is his debut in Hong Kong that explores the enchantment of bears. Bears cause injuries and casualties in Japan every year but are also popular cartoon figures loved by many, creating a contrast between reality and human imagination. Through this exhibition, Masao Takahata wishes to bring the audience to rediscover the beauty of life with a simple yet genuine mind.