NOMAD Exhibition

This summer, I’m holding my first ever solo exhibition in London!

After years of freelancing, travelling, and illustrating my way around the world, I’m so excited (and slightly nervous) to be sharing a body of work that means a lot to me. The exhibition is called NOMAD, and it explores the concept of “home” in contemporary Japan, a country that continues to inspire me deeply.

The idea for the show began last year, inspired by my time spent in Japan, first as a speaker at Colive Fukuoka and then as an artist-in-residence in Kanazawa. During that time, I interviewed digital nomads, Japanese locals, and evacuees from the Noto earthquake, asking each of them a simple but powerful question: What does “home” mean to you? Their stories shaped the illustrations in this show.

Why Japan?

Japan has recently introduced a digital nomad visa, as part of a wider effort to counteract the effects of its ageing population and declining birth rate. These changes are encouraging more international workers to live temporarily in Japan, supporting local economies along the way. Meanwhile, a new generation of Japanese people is also choosing to leave their hometowns for the first time, sometimes to explore life abroad, and sometimes out of necessity, such as in the wake of natural disasters.

For many, the idea of “home” is becoming more fluid than fixed. This exhibition contrasts the transience of digital nomad life with the deep-rooted traditions of Japanese culture, and explores how both choice and circumstance can shape our sense of belonging. Part of the show focuses on the devastating 2024 Noto earthquake, which left thousands of people displaced. One on the pieces on show is a collaboration with Yu Yamagishi, a Natsume lacquerware artist who lost her home in the disaster. 50% of the profits from the exhibition will be donated to support earthquake recovery in Noto via the Ishikawa Prefectural Community Chest (Red Feather, CCCJ).

A big thank you to the sponsors

• The Great Britain Sasakawa Foundation The Great Britain Sasakawa Foundation is a UK-based non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting mutual understanding and collaboration between the UK and Japan. Established in 1985 with funding from The Nippon Foundation, it supports cultural exchange, education, research, and grassroots initiatives that strengthen ties between the two countries. Their generous support has been instrumental in bringing this exhibition to life, helping to cover core costs and enabling me to share these stories with a wider audience.

• Ikkan Sushi Ikkan is an independent Japanese sushi restaurant based in London, led by a talented and dedicated team. Known for its focus on authenticity and value, Ikkan brings the spirit of Japanese hospitality to everything they do. They’re kindly sponsoring the exhibition with beautifully made sushi for guests to enjoy on the opening night. I’m especially excited as I love sushi and I know it will be delicious! If you're in London, check out their restaurants in Marylebone, Covent Garden and Elm Street in London.

• Colive Fukuoka Colive Fukuoka is a major digital nomad event held annually in one of Japan’s most dynamic cities, welcoming remote workers from around the world. I had the pleasure of being a guest speaker there last year which was a real highlight of my time in Japan. This year's event will bring together creatives, entrepreneurs, and changemakers to explore the future of work and lifestyle, with a focus on deep cultural exchange and community connection. I'm so excited that this exhibition will be part of it!

• Linnas Kanazawa Linnas is a beautifully designed hotel and community hub in Kanazawa, where I stayed during my residency. But beyond the aesthetics, what impressed me most was their generosity. After the Noto earthquake, Linnas opened its doors to evacuees, offering free accommodation to those who had lost their homes. Their commitment to hospitality and social responsibility made a lasting impression, and I’m thrilled to include them in this exhibition.

• Kirin Beer Kirin is one of Japan’s most iconic drinks brands, known worldwide for its high-quality beer. I’m delighted that Kirin are supporting the exhibition’s private view by providing drinks for our guests. It’s a lovely way to celebrate Japanese culture here in London, and I’m so grateful to have them involved. Their support helps create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where people can connect, enjoy the show, and sample some fine Japanese beer.

Come and see it!

NOMAD: Perspectives on Home in a Changing Japan

67 York Street Gallery, London

3–13 July 2025

Free entry | Open daily 10am–6pm

I’ll be sharing more behind-the-scenes updates in the run-up to the show and would absolutely love to see some of you there!

Love,

Molly x