If there is one thing different about the Tokyo Olympics 2020, compared to past iterations, it is the sight of people – not just the Japanese – wearing masks. With this in mind, Japanese artist Tanaka Tetsuya incorporated mask-wearing into his miniature artworks of the Tokyo Olympics.
Swimming
Image credit: MINIATURE CALENDAR
On 23rd July, to commemorate the opening of the Tokyo Olympics, miniature artist and photographer Tanaka Tatsuya released a series of photos recreating various miniature Tokyo Olympic games. Besides mini figurines, Tanaka usually uses everyday necessities, such as bread and sponges, to create his dioramas.
Volleyball
Image credit: MINIATURE CALENDAR
Track & field
Image credit: MINIATURE CALENDAR
Since masks have become an integral part of daily life, Tanaka incorporated them into this series. To further drive home his point, the photos were captioned “Stay safe while enjoying the Olympic games”.
High jump
Image credit: MINIATURE CALENDAR
The use of different parts of the surgical mask to recreate iconic features of each game exudes ingenious creativity, much like the live pictogram imitation performance during the Tokyo Olympics opening ceremony.
Image credit: @minpo_jigyo
Tanaka is holding a few limited-time art exhibitions showcasing many of his other works, and if you have the chance, do visit to witness his works in real life.
Akita Museum of Art
Image credit: @AAB_Event
There are currently three exhibitions in three different prefectures: Fukushima Prefectural Culture Center (until 29th August 2021), Akita Museum of Art (until 29 August 2021), and Nagasaki Museum of History and Culture (until 31st August 2021).
Image credit: @AAB_Event
You can also purchase merchandise from these exhibitions, such as postcards, shirts, and more.
If you still can’t get enough of Tanaka’s masterpieces, keep an eye on MINIATURE CALENDAR as he releases new photos of his latest creations regularly.
You can also support his work by purchasing his merchandise from his official website. You can also follow him on his Facebook.
For more Tokyo Olympics articles, check out:
Cover image adapted from MINIATURE CALENDAR and MINIATURE CALENDAR
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