Title: Shiba Inu & Cat — Blue Tin Wall
Size: S50 (116.7 × 116.7 cm / 45.9 × 45.9 in)
Medium: pigments (Suihi), Gofun & Mica on Kochi hemp paper (Washi)
2026
Now available at @courtgallery_kunitachi
On view through March 17, 2026.
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About this work
For a long time, I’ve been drawn to the sight of blue corrugated metal walls.
One day, I caught a glimpse beyond one of them.
Behind the wall was a patchwork of tin rooftops, layered together like a mosaic.
Beyond that—
a quiet residential neighborhood.
The contrast between the artificial blue wall and the colorful traces of everyday life felt unexpectedly beautiful.
That moment moved me to pick up my brush.
In this painting, the Shiba Inu and the tabby cat are walking on the other side of the blue wall,
wandering through the neighborhood.
Up close, the blue pigments reveal delicate textures.
From a distance, the color becomes vivid and dynamic.
I hope you can feel the rhythm of the corrugated metal and the quiet atmosphere of the town.
🐕🐈🐾🐾🐾
Shiba Inu & Tabby Cat
#shibainuandtabbycat
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About the “Shiba Inu & Tabby Cat” series
A senior Shiba Inu and a young tabby cat are close friends.
The cat’s lower body is paralyzed.
The Shiba Inu carries the cat in a small cart,
and together they go everywhere.
Through streets filled with people, cars, and trains,
the two wander freely.
This series captures their small everyday adventures.
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🚃 2 minutes walk from JR Kunitachi Station
Currently on view in the solo exhibition
“Shiba Inu & Tabby Cat — A Leisurely Journey.”
Venue: Court Gallery Kunitachi, Tokyo
Exhibition dates: March 5 – March 17, 2026
Hours: 11:00 – 18:00 (until 16:00 on the final day)
Closed on Wednesdays
Gallery website
https://www.courtgallery-k.com
Artwork inquiries
Contact form:
https://www.courtgallery-k.com/contact/
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Shibatora Natsuko
A Tokyo-based Nihonga painter.
MFA, Musashino Art University.
Since her student years, she has held solo exhibitions and continues to actively create new works.
Her recent work centers on the “Shiba Inu & Tabby Cat” series, inspired by her own dog and cat, exploring themes of animals and everyday life.
Website
https://shibatoraneko.tumblr.com
X (Twitter)
https://twitter.com/shibatoraneko
#japanesepainting
#nihonga
#shibainu
#catart
