Into the World of Kusama

Enter into a world of dots, dots, more dots and mirrors... One of the most celebrate artists of all time is not only a lady, but also of Japanese descent, now 88 years-old Yayoi Kusama is a living legend known for her mixed media work. What started on canvas and merged into sculpture, then video and performance art has also evolved into an experiential exhibit. You may have seen images in Honolulu of pink blobs with black polka dots in and around town, then photos of people standing in a room with lights and more dots that appear to go on into infinity. These installations and exhibits were started by the Japanese artist originally from Nagano and who later moved to New York to hone her craft. 

An award-winning artist, novelist and anti-war advocate Kusama's works have circled the globe. Her art is often inspired by her obsession with dots and infinity, but with that she also focuses on love, life and dreams. The engaging installations are installed in a room with dots everywhere or within boxes that are lined with mirrors. I saw this exhibit on the last day of the installation in Singapore (National Gallery Singapore) and the lines seemed to snake through the museum all day long, even with a reservation. Upon entry and display of her earlier works you see how her obsession with dots began. Her creation of painted nets sparked the design that she would craft for her entire career. Then in the 60's the mirror rooms began. Aimed to allow a person to stand in a room with infinite possibilities and on an endless journey now guests are limited to 12-20 seconds in the room and most are not alone as I was with 2 other friends. So over time the element of what the art work was truly created for may be lost but the supply and demand has gone up. I would rather spend 12 seconds in a room with others than wait any longer in a line to stand in the room for 60 seconds. 

In the end, it was a great experience and I would highly recommend visiting a Kusama exhibit if it comes to your area. It is truly unique and a great show for all the senses. 

You can find her exhibits:
October 2017 - January 2018 The Broad, Los Angeles
March 2018-May 2018 Art Gallery of Ontario
July 2018 - October 2018 Cleveland Museum of Art, Ohio