1.A large-scale installation by two artists who harbor special connections to light
Two artists, who continue to be active at the forefront of contemporary art, have prepared works especially for this occasion to bring together a remarkably unique exhibition.
Noe Aoki has consistently worked with the heavy material of iron, drawing various inspirations from the “transparent light” that appears from within when iron is melted in the process of fusion cutting. Meanwhile, Ritsue Mishima has attempted to depict the “outline of light” through her glass works, focusing on the expressions of light that surround us.
Although the two artists have different attitudes and approaches towards light, their works, both conceived through profound contemplation, unfold across spaces exquisitely imbued with a rich array of shadows and reflections. The museum is filled with natural sunlight during the day and is illuminated after dusk by its warm interior lighting. We welcome viewers to enjoy the installation whose appearance and impression changes with time and season.
2.“Iron” and “glass,” resonating with one another beyond time in this palace of Art Deco
Prince Asaka and his wife Princess Nobuko, the first residents of what is now the main building of the Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum, were fascinated by the beauty of the Art Deco style that they came across in France, and incorporated its essence into their own home which was completed in 1933. This indeed is the Residence of Prince Asaka, which serves as the setting for this exhibition. In the richly decorative space of the Residence of Prince Asaka, where a variety of materials are used in the interior of each room, the two materials which in particular eloquently express the essence of Art Deco design, are iron and glass.
Noe Aoki and Ritsue Mishima install their iron works and glass works by themselves in the historical decorative spaces designed by French artists such as René Lalique and Raymond Subes, giving rise to a special collaboration that transcends time.
3.Introducing the current work and practice of the two artists
The exhibition also presents a selection of new works that have recently been produced. Additionally featured, are interviews with the artists recorded in correspondence to the exhibition, photographic images taken by the artists themselves, as well video footage and other materials that shed light on processes by which they produce their work. What thoughts currently permeate the minds of these two artists who live in our same day and age, and what is it that captures their gaze? The exhibition attempts to convey the breath of creativity through the eyes of these two artists in their everyday lives.
4.Related programs that serve to deepen encounters with the artworks and generate dialogue
A variety of programs for engaging in dialogues about light and place will be organized, including a talk by the two artists regarding their artworks in the exhibition (February 15, 2025), gallery talks by the exhibition staff introducing the appeal of the works, “Philosophical Dialogue” to view the works and slowly contemplate on light (December 22, 2024), and “Touch and Chat Art Time” which provides a more physical viewing experience by inviting visitors to touch some of the artworks (February 1, 2025). We welcome visitors to join us for such opportunities to share words and thoughts that emerge from scenes that can only be encountered here and now.