Yuuki Natsunagi

Yuuki Natsunagi is a distinguished artist specializing in traditional Japanese Kamigata dance, known as one of the most minimalistic forms of movement in the world. Through her performances, films, and photography, she conveys contemporary artistic expression using the Japanese fan and kimono, bringing the essence of this unique dance form to audiences worldwide.

From childhood, Yuuki immersed herself in dance and traditional Japanese arts, later refining her artistic vision at the Graduate School of Fine Arts at Tokyo University of the Arts. Her body of work is deeply rooted in the elegance of Japanese aesthetics while embracing a modern perspective.

Her notable performance pieces include “tears of Eos” (2009, Tokyo Asahi ArtSquare) and “camellia” (2012, Beppu Contemporary Art Festival). She also gained international recognition with her dance film “aquarium” (2013), which was screened at prestigious venues across 12 countries, including the Sculpture Garden in New York, the Ludwig Museum in Germany, the Freiburg Theater, and the Miró Museum in Mallorca, Spain. It was also showcased at La Briqueterie CDCN in France, further solidifying her global presence.

Continuing her exploration of dance and film,Yuuki’s recent work, “peri” (2021), was exhibited at the Screen Dance Festival at Dansmuseet in Stockholm, Sweden. The film earned critical acclaim, winning the Best Dance Short Film Award at the Kiez Berlin Film Festival in Germany, the Best Experimental Film Award at the Slovak Europe Music Award festival, and an Honorable Mention at the Budapest Film Festival in 2023. In 2024, it was screened as the Best Experimental Film at Théâtre Le Temple in France.

Through her artistry, Yuuki Natsunagi continues to push the boundaries of traditional Japanese dance, offering audiences a bridge between heritage and contemporary expression.