Ceramic Totems – “Japan 1968” Exhibition

In December 2025, on the occasion of the exhibition “Japan 1968”, Retour De Voyage Gallery presents an original series of seven totemic sculptures created by Pierre Sgamma.

Ceramics conceived by Pierre Sgamma

Conceived as a coherent ensemble, this series reflects a desire to close the year on a joyful, free and slightly offbeat note, without abandoning the depth of the sculptural gesture.

Inspired by Japan-inflected imagery, shamanism, and a form of personal mythology, these ceramic statues fully embrace a playful dimension: covered with flowers, signs and colours, the totems open wide, round eyes onto the world.

Pierre Sgamma invents a personal mythology populated by benevolent guardians, floral spirits and deities that bring a smile. One moves from one figure to the next as if through a strange and joyful tale, where the sacred finally agrees not to take itself too seriously.

HanaGasa, “ Totem with a floral crown”

A frontally joyful sculpture, featuring a continuous floral crown and a deliberately bare, softly crackled face. Its circular rhythm and richly decorative surface contrast with its tiny, discreet gaze.

Hanagasa wears a festive garden around its head and across its colourful body. The crown forms an unbroken ring, like a dance held still. Its face, left almost bare, retains the trace of the fire.

It looks on calmly, happy to be here, bringing a sense of joy and serenity.