NAOFUMI MARUYAMA

During his process of art-making while utilising water as a medium, Maruyama contemplates that “everything is in flux.” We are accustomed to capturing the elusive flow of the world by representing it through diagrams and words in order to rationally understand phenomena. However, the understanding gained through such analysis does not necessarily explain the irrational events or the complex emotions that shape our individual lives.

“I believe that flow is inherently something that cannot be visualised. If we want to visualize it with time, it divides and stops the flow using dates and days of the week. I sometimes feel a sense of discomfort with this. Memories fade and disappear. Then, they are rearranged and reborn as something new. I want to create my art with an awareness of this kind of flow.”

Like stars flickering in the vast expanse of time and space, our memories of life exist and form meaning. Naofumi Maruyamaʼs wavering art may serve as a place where these fragments gradually come together. In this exhibition, we will present over six new works of Maruyama, including a large-scale piece measuring 3.6 meters, inspired by waterside nature. Additionally, Maruyamaʼs artist book brackish water, which compiles photographs he captures in daily life, has recently been published. This accordion-style book is designed not only to be enjoyed by flipping through the pages but also to be unfolded and viewed three-dimensionally. Limited to six copies, each features a unique, specially crafted case. We hope you will enjoy the exhibition.