Zentis Osaka Presents An Immersive Experience With
‘Zentis Art-in-Residence: itu’s Crossover’ – A Collaboration With Artist itu’

OSAKA (July 16, 2024) – Paris-based Japanese artist itu’, who has garneredinternational recognition for his eccentric style, has brought his vision to Zentis Osakawith a captivating installation that has the design-forward hotel featuring works speciallycreated by the artist for this pop-up not only throughout its public spaces, but also as partof a bold transformation of one of its Corner Studios.
Dubbing it ‘crossover’, itu’ took inspiration for the exhibition from his own experiences at
the upscale, lifestyle hotel. “Zentis is a place where diverse people gather – regardlessof nationality, generation or culture – and where each person's values transcend borders
and naturally intermingle,” observed the artist.
“Similarly, with this installation, I’m endeavoring to eliminate the boundary between art
and people by blurring the lines between the traditional perception of art – which is merelyfor viewing and appreciating from a distance – and everyday items,” said itu’. “While thework being viewed and the viewer are separate entities, naturally, the relationshipbetween them changes depending on how they interact and the factors surrounding aninteraction.”
Embodying that ‘crossover’ sentiment, itu’s creations for Zentis Osaka’s debut ‘Art-inResidence’ program not only encompass over a dozen canvases on display throughout
the hotel, but his free-spirited artistry has also been applied to non-traditional mediums
such as glassware as well as the furnishings, curtains, bedding and other everyday items
found in the singular Corner Studio room that’s been temporarily re-imagined into ‘itu’sArt Studio’.
Those who book a stay in ‘itu’s Art Studio’ will not only have the opportunity to enjoy theimmersive art experience throughout the hotel and in their one-of-a-kind accommodation,
but will also be able to take their in-room slippers – specially painted by the artist, withno two pairs alike – home as keepsakes.
In the public spaces, the boundaries between art and the hotel are stretched further with
two staff sporting custom-painted uniforms by itu’, including stylish footwear – echoing
the artistic sneakers and array of impressive collaborations that first drew attention tohim.
At UPSTAIRZ Bar, award-winning head bartender Norihiko Furuse has concocted an
original cocktail that’s as layered in flavors and aromas as itu’s distinctive style. The
vodka-based drink opens with a subtle scent of cedar and notes of sweet white peach
before an earthy aroma of sandalwood rounds out the sophisticated cocktail experience.

Born in Japan’s Aichi prefecture, itu’ taught himself to paint and, in 2014, opened his own
atelier in the Marais district of Paris – his playful style and vivid palette unbound by
conventional canvases from the start. Over the past decade, he’s held shows in Franceand Singapore, hosted pop-up exhibitions, produced murals and collaborated with wellknown brands.
“Since we first arrived on Osaka’s hotel scene four years ago, we set out to be a cultural
hub for art, music and craftsmanship,” explained Kiyotaka Saito, Zentis Osaka’s new
general manager. “Through collaborations with artists like itu’ and other cultural pursuits– such as our ‘Salon de Zentis’ series, which is a collaboration with acclaimed musicproducer Naoki Tachikawa celebrating legendary musicians – we’re offering our guests
new encounters that, hopefully, broaden their ideas and experiences of Japan.”Appointed general manager ahead of the property’s fourth anniversary, Saito brings abreadth of experience, including nearly three decades with Palace Hotel Group – thecompany behind the Zentis brand – spent working across various hotel departments. The
early part of his career included a year spent in London immersed in the inner workingsof world-renowned properties such as The Savoy, Claridge’s, The Connaught and TheBerkeley as part of Palace Hotel Group’s cross-training program. New to Osaka, theTokyoite looks forward to getting acquainted with his new home city as it prepares towelcome travelers from all over the world for Expo 2025.
‘Zentis Art-in-Residence: itu’s Crossover’ is on now through September 30, 2024.
Bookable through October 31, 2024 (subject to availability), a stay in ‘itu’s Art Studio’starts from JPY45,000 per night, inclusive of taxes and service charge.
For more information, or to book a stay, please visit: www.zentishotels.com

ABOUT ZENTIS OSAKA
Zentis Osaka is the debut property of Palace Hotel Group's Zentis label, a brand withdesigns on raising the bar on select-service hospitality. Sixteen stories tall, thecontemporary build features interiors by internationally renowned UK design firm Tara
Bernerd & Partners and a pedigree that stems from the award-winning Palace HotelTokyo – the independent, homegrown brand that has redefined luxury Japanesehospitality.
Subtly edgy, wonderfully Japanese and naturally resplendent, the 212-room hotel pays
homage to a city known for its industrious charm with an industrial chic look and laidback feel. Osaka's first addition to the bespoke collection of Design Hotels features local
design touches, including shigaraki-yaki bedside tables crafted in the kilns of Shiga,
shodo-inspired wallpaper installations and contemporary works by a local artist.
The dining concept at UPSTAIRZ – the hotel’s lounge, bar and restaurant – wasconceived by a team with a Michelin-star track record and features a menu with Japaneseand French influences.
@zentishotels | @upstairz_lounge_bar_restaurant | @designhotels

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