From polka dots to pumpkins (and more)
Step inside artist Yayoi Kusama’s mind-bending universe as the National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne, presents a retrospective showcase that’s as vibrant as it is visionary, writes Intan Maizura Ahmad Kamal
IN a whirlwind of polka dots and pumpkins, the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) will be heralding the arrival of a momentous event: the world-premiere blockbuster exhibition of iconic contemporary artist Yayoi Kusama.
From December this year to April the next, art enthusiasts and novices alike are invited to delve into the mesmerising universe of Kusama’s artistry, spanning eight decades of her illustrious career.
Glimpse into Kusama’s World: The Early Years and Arrival in New York
Born in Japan in 1929, Kusama’s artistic journey began in the idyllic landscapes of her hometown, Matsumoto. “Kusama’s impact on contemporary art is indelible,” remarks Tony Ellwood A.M, director of NGV, adding: “Her singular and idiosyncratic vision has captivated audiences around the world.”
Guided by an insatiable passion for creativity, the maverick artist ventured beyond her homeland to the bustling streets of New York City in 1957, where she found herself amid the burgeoning art scene of the 1950s and 1960s.
From Sketches to Sculptures: A Chronological Exploration of Kusama’s Artistry
As visitors step into the exhibition, they will be transported through time, beginning with Kusama’s early sketches and paintings from the late 1930s and 1940s. “This worldpremiere NGV-exclusive exhibition allows local audiences and visitors alike the chance to experience Kusama’s practice in deeper and more profound ways than ever before,” says Ellwood.
The journey continues with a selection of the artist’s renowned “Infinity Net” paintings of the late 1950s and 1960s, followed by her iconic “Accumulation” sculptures and fashion of the 1960s and 1970s.
Infinity Rooms and Immersive Experiences: Delving into Kusama’s Mind
The heart of the exhibition pulsates with an array of Kusama’s installations, including her legendary infinity rooms. “There are few artists who have captivated audiences around the world like Yayoi Kusama,” enthuses Steve Dimopoulos, minister for tourism, sport and major events, adding: “Her work transcends boundaries and invites viewers to explore the boundless depths of her imagination.”
A new kaleidoscopic infinity mirror room, specially developed for the exhibition, makes its global premiere in Melbourne, drawing visitors into a mesmerising realm of infinite space.
Pumpkins, Polka Dots and More: Celebrating Kusama’s Iconic Motifs
Among the exhibition’s highlights will be the Australian debut of “Dancing Pumpkin”, a towering bronze sculpture that reimagines Kusama’s iconic motif in striking new dimensions.
“This will be the largest exhibition of works by the iconic Japanese artist ever to be held in Australia,” remarks Colin Brooks, minister for creative industries. The exhibition also features the Australian premiere of “The hope of the polka dots buried in infinity will eternally cover the universe, 2019”, entangling viewers within towering tentacular forms adorned with yellow-and-black polka dots.
A Reflection on Self: Narcissus Garden and Other Installations
As visitors traverse through the exhibition, they will encounter the “Narcissus Garden”, a mesmerising installation comprising over 1,400 stainless silver balls. Referencing the Greek myth of Narcissus, the installation invites contemplation on themes of self-reflection and existentialism. “Her impact on contemporary art is indelible,” emphasises Ellwood, as visitors lose themselves in the infinite reflections created by the metallic spheres.
Children’s Galleries and Public Programmes: Experiences for All Ages
In addition to the main exhibition, the NGV’s dedicated children’s galleries present “Kusama for Kids”, offering immersive experiences for young art enthusiasts.
Throughout the exhibition, visitors can participate in a suite of NGVcurated programmes, including NGV Friday Nights and a series of events copresented with Asia TOPA, Australia’s major triennial festival of Asia-Pacific performance.
A Testament to Creativity: Kusama’s Enduring Legacy
From her early sketches to her latest creations, “Yayoi Kusama” offers a comprehensive retrospective of the artist’s groundbreaking contributions to contemporary art.
Alongside the work presented in collaboration with the NGV and the artist, significant loans will come from Ota Fine Arts, as well as major Japanese and Australian museums, including The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo; The National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto; Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art; Chiba City Museum of Art; The Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo; Iwami Art Museum, Shimane; The Meguro Museum of Art, Tokyo; National Gallery of Australia, Canberra; Queensland Art Gallery/Gallery of Modern Art, Brisbane, and private collections, including the Kim and Lito Camacho Collection and Daisuke Miyatsu Collection.