Luna di loto in Milan: Rengetsu — poetry, ceramics and calligraphy

Luna di loto: Rengetsu — poetry, ceramics and calligraphy

Luna di loto is a thematic exhibition pairing the historical work of Japanese poet, calligrapher and ceramist Ōtagaki Rengetsu with contemporary responses. The show highlights the meeting of written verse, calligraphic gesture and ceramic form, framed within the wabi-sabi appreciation of impermanence and imperfection.

The presentation features about thirty original works by Rengetsu displayed in Italy for the first time, together with contemporary calligraphic and pictorial pieces by Bruno Riva, Katia Bagnoli, Elena Cristina Toma and others, plus a ceramics series by Ekaterina De Andreis created in conversation with Rengetsu’s vision.

Exhibition layout and works

The itinerary is organised across two venues, alternating everyday objects—vases, tea bowls, sake bottles engraved with waka poems—with modern calligraphy and painting. De Andreis’ production for the show includes one hundred ceramics made using traditional techniques and hand-engraved accents; they are interpretations rather than replicas.

Practical information

• Dates: 28/04/2026 - 08/05/2026
• Venues:
  • Studio TOMA, via Moscova 25 — opening Tuesday 28 April 2026, 18:30
  • Ekadea studio, via Plinio 42 — opening Wednesday 29 April 2026, 18:30
• Pre-installations: from 8 April selected works are on view at the Consulate General of Japan (via Privata Cesare Mangili 2/4) and in the Boutique Toma shop window (via della Spiga 2).
• Curators: Katia Bagnoli and Bruno Riva
• Catalogue: volume including over fifty Rengetsu poems translated into Italian, with facing text.

Why visit

This exhibition is an opportunity to encounter a pivotal 19th-century Japanese artist and to see how her legacy is reinterpreted by present-day practitioners. The format encourages reflection and a measured pace, suitable for visitors seeking a contemplative gallery experience.