A new solo exhibition titled "Back to School" by the artist duo Giorgiko is currently on display at Hashimoto Contemporary in New York, featuring eight oil paintings that explore the nostalgic and complex emotions of childhood school experiences. The exhibition, which runs through August 30, 2025, presents works inspired by the artists' twin sons and their recent entry into school life.
Giorgiko, comprised of husband-and-wife team Darren and Trisha Inouye, has created a collection of paintings that radiate familiarity through universal childhood memories. Each work captures the full spectrum of school-related emotions, ranging from innocence and playfulness to awkwardness and self-discovery. The timing of the exhibition coincides perfectly with the back-to-school season, when children across the country prepare to return to classrooms after summer break.
Among the standout pieces is "Late Pickup," which depicts a young girl sitting patiently on school stairs as the sky transitions to a peachy pink behind her. The painting presents a solitary moment that becomes less lonely through the viewer's presence, creating a sense of shared companionship. In contrast, "Dodgeball" offers a more chaotic composition showing a group of children attempting to wrestle a ball away from a victorious boy who holds it triumphantly above his head while staring directly at viewers, as if seeking their assistance.
"Physical Education" explores similar playground themes, featuring several boys stacked on each other's shoulders while wearing classic standardized gym uniforms. The canvas is intentionally cut off at both ends, creating an artistic impression that this tower of children extends endlessly beyond the frame. This compositional choice emphasizes the universal nature of childhood play and physical activity.
Perhaps the most exemplary piece in the exhibition is "Class Photo," which showcases multiple children with distinct personalities clearly visible. One child sports a frilly collar while a girl flashes bunny ears behind the boy in front of her, suggesting they might be the class clowns. Another boy wears a dark t-shirt and a bluish cap with an almost reflective quality, potentially marking him as the "cool kid." These character details prompt viewers to reflect on their own school experiences and the social categorization that was an everyday occurrence during childhood.
The artists explained their inspiration in a statement: "We drew inspiration from our own children's experiences and revisited personal memories to create these works. We hope this show brings nostalgia and takes viewers back to school, reminding them of a time of smallness and innocence." This artistic approach successfully bridges the gap between personal experience and universal memory.
The exhibition also includes works titled "Classmates," "Picture Day 1," and "Picture Day 2," each contributing to the comprehensive exploration of school life experiences. From yearbook photography sessions to playground activities, the collection encompasses the full range of moments that define childhood education experiences. The paintings invite adult viewers back into the fold of childhood memories with tenderness and compassion.
Hashimoto Contemporary, located at 54 Ludlow Street in New York, is hosting the exhibition as part of its ongoing commitment to showcasing contemporary artists who explore themes of memory, childhood, and universal human experiences. Visitors can plan their visit and learn more by accessing the gallery's website. The exhibition represents Giorgiko's continued exploration of family themes and childhood experiences through the medium of oil painting, demonstrating how personal artistic inspiration can resonate with broader audiences through shared memories of growing up.
