"Drifting" Sculpture

Hironori Kiyoshima is a Japanese figurative sculptor whose work explores the complexity of the human condition through powerful representations of the human body. His sculptures focus on moments of emotional tension, vulnerability, and resilience, revealing the inner strength and fragility that coexist within human beings. Working primarily with clay, bronze, and acrylic resin, Kiyoshima begins each piece with traditional clay modeling before casting the work into its final material. His practice combines classical figurative traditions with contemporary sculptural approaches, emphasizing anatomical precision, expressive movement, and psychological depth. Influenced by both Western masters such as Auguste Rodin and the spiritual presence of ancient Japanese sculpture including Haniwa and Kamakura-period Buddhist sculpture, Kiyoshima develops works that bridge historical sculptural traditions with contemporary expression. His recent works reflect on human dignity and resistance in times of social and political uncertainty. Through dramatic gestures and striking contrasts of form and color, his sculptures evoke the enduring will of humanity even when confronted with overwhelming forces. Kiyoshima has received numerous awards in major public art exhibitions in Japan and internationally, including the ARC International Salon and the GCA Sculpture Competition in New York. His works have also been installed as public monuments and collected internationally. He lives and works in Japan.