The Austin Asian American Resource Center (AARC) is currently hosting an exhibit from artist Kengo Hioki, also known as Peelander-Yellow, entitled "Let's Play on Planet-Yellow!!!" running now until April 5, inviting visitors to step into a realm where diversity transcends familiar human and animal forms.
As an artist grounded in a range of disciplines, from muralist to musician, Peelander-Yellow's interactive showcase provides an opportunity for audience members to engage with inhabitants of an imaginative world, the exhibit aims to bridge the gap between the extraordinary and everyday, between that which is known, and what can only be imagined, Pane-Yellow which is his representation of a utopia where different beings with multiple faces and appendages coexist peacefully despite their vast differences. "Peelander-Yellow hopes that through this exhibit, visitors will be able to enjoy exploring, playing, and befriending all of the residents on Planet Yellow," stated the overview provided by the city of Austin's website.
Peelander-Yellow's artistic journey traversed from Hyogo, Japan to Austin, Texas, with significant stops at the Osaka University of Art and the Art Students League of New York; throughout his career, he has infused his zest for life into various creative endeavors including band performances with Peelander-Z as well as live painting events that encourage audience participation.
His contributions to the Austin art scene were acknowledged when he was awarded the Austin Chronicle's Best of Austin title for Best Visual Artist in 2019, Kengo Hioki not only claimed accolades but also stamped his creative expression on more than 60 murals around the United States, in places like Facebook's Austin office and Google's Chicago office, such an extensive portfolio under his belt, his current exhibition reflects a lifetime of artistic exploration and embodies a message of inclusivity and unity.
For those interested in immersing themselves in an otherworldly experience and reflecting on the importance of diversity and friendship, Peelander-Yellow's exhibit at 8401 Cameron Rd — open to the public — provides a unique space to do just that until its closure in early April.
