Hotel Resol Ueno (7-2-9 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo) will host a special photography exhibition by Photographer Sho at its in-lobby art gallery "Resol Gallery Ueno," running from April 1 (Wednesday) to April 30 (Thursday), 2026. Admission is free and open to non-guests as well.
The "Resol Gallery Ueno" initiative, launched in 2024 as part of the hotel's commitment to rooting itself in the artistic neighborhood of Ueno, creates opportunities for emerging artists to connect with travelers. The gallery has previously showcased diverse works across genres including oil painting and printmaking, welcoming both established and up-and-coming artists. Special and permanent exhibitions are held alternately every two months.
Photographer Sho, the 14th featured artist at this gallery, graduated from Kitasato University before working as a systems engineer, designer, and marketer, before pursuing a full-time career as a photographer.
The exhibition features two main works along with several additional pieces. The additional works are intentionally displayed without titles or captions, reflecting the artist's wish for each viewer to freely interpret and receive them. Visitors are invited to engage with the photographs directly, unmediated by words.
Exhibited Works
Embracing the Dawn
In the moment just before the sun rises, the world comes to a standstill. Against the cold morning air, Mount Fuji stands serene and proud, encircled by cherry blossoms in full bloom. The silence and tranquility before dawn, the hope of transitioning into morning—all affirmed by the powerful presence of Mount Fuji at the center. This work imparts quiet strength, a meditative focus, and a sense of peace and hope to those who view it.
Torii of the Living Waters
400,000 liters of water spring up each day—the "movement" of this flowing water traces the spiral of life. In contrast, a torii gate and pond stand in quiet stillness. This juxtaposition layers themes of purification and rebirth, capturing the sacred space (water shrine) where life continuously circulates and is renewed.
Additional Untitled Works
Artist Profile: Photographer Sho
Born Shota Iino in 1996 in Ibaraki Prefecture. After graduating from Kitasato University, he worked as a systems engineer, designer, and marketer before becoming a photographer.
Artist's Comment:
"I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to exhibit my work in the wonderful space of Hotel Resol Ueno. What I have infused into the two main works is 'quiet strength,' 'hope for the future,' and 'Zen.' Not flashiness, but the energy that dwells in silence—a positive inspiration that wells up quietly yet with conviction, like the time just before dawn. Through viewing these works, I hope visitors will find a sense of calm and healing—a 'white space' within themselves—and discover their own hopes and new insights.
I would be honored if, within the refined space of Hotel Resol Ueno, visitors can sense the academic values of Japan and the 'spirit of Zen' through photography. I hope this exhibition will make each traveler's stay richer and more meaningful."
Exhibition Overview
- Dates: April 1 (Wednesday) to April 30 (Thursday), 2026
- Venue: Resol Gallery Ueno, Living Lobby, Hotel Resol Ueno (7-2-9 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo)
- Access: 1-minute walk from the Asakusaguchi/Iriya-guchi exits of JR Ueno Station
- Artist: Photographer Sho
- Admission: Free (open to non-hotel guests)
- Hours: Hotel guests: 24 hours / Non-guests: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Special website: https://resolphotoex.shotaiino.me/
