At Whitestone Ginza New Gallery, the exhibition “Dimensions III—in/sight” is holding works by emerging contemporary artists. This space, where the unique talents of multiple artists intersect, creates a platform where individuality and expression come together to generate new insights.

For this exhibition, we conducted interviews with the six participating artists in order to reveal their inner worlds. We asked them the same set of questions to find out how they developed their artistic expressions, and unravel the relationship between art and modern society as depicted in their artworks.

The formation of the world, in search of its truth: generation and dissolution

Aire Akiyama《Jester》(2024, 116.7 × 91.0 × 3.0cm, oil and ac on canvas)

1. What is the theme behind this exhibition?

Akiyama: The focus of my work this time is on the desires and “intervals” within the human psyche. In daily life, many people suppress their true desires and feelings, donning the mask of being a “good person.” However, when that mask reaches its limit, there comes a fleeting moment when the inner self is revealed. My work aims to capture that intersection of the subconscious and conscious, transcending individual experiences to evoke a universal sensation.

2. Tell us about the featured artwork, Jestar.

Akiyama: Jestar portrays the duality of light and darkness inherent in the lives of those engaged in the arts, including myself. Artists—whether painters, musicians, writers, comedians, or actors—don’t always occupy high positions in societal hierarchies. Fundamentally, they often serve a role akin to jesters, bringing joy to others. Yet, through their creations, some artists grow to wield profound influence over society, sometimes even reshaping it. This paradox and absurdity inspired the piece, which conveys the sorrow felt amidst these conflicting emotions.

Aire Akiyama《Echoes in Bloom #2》(2024, 72.8 × 60.6cm, oil and acrylic on canvas)

3. Was there a pivotal event that inspired your journey as an artist?

Akiyama: I’ve never consciously dwelled on a specific starting point, but I always incorporate a sense of “loneliness amid the crowd” into my work. Living within a society, I often experience a sudden sense of isolation in groups. This sentiment seems to naturally manifest in the tone and elements of my creations.

4. What motivates you to keep creating, and what do you see as your strengths as an artist?

Akiyama: My motivation lies in the desire to explore new forms of expression, self-critique for personal growth, and the stimulation derived from others’ reactions.

Self-critique is particularly crucial for deepening my work. By objectively reassessing completed pieces, I identify areas for improvement, sparking fresh ideas for future projects. During exhibitions, I may withhold or discard two to three pieces, even if finished, if they don’t meet my standards.

Responses from others also provide significant inspiration. Observing how my work is received and what emotions or thoughts it evokes unveils aspects I hadn’t noticed, adding new dimensions to my creative process. Ultimately, the dialogue between myself, my art, and others is deeply fulfilling.

Whitestone Ginza New Gallery

5. How did you arrive at your current methods of expression, and what are your thoughts on your chosen medium?

Akiyama: Until a few years ago, my work leaned heavily on graphic elements, but I’ve gradually experimented with changes. I’ve focused on creating “gaps” and “dualities” within the canvas, which led to layering techniques reminiscent of frosted glass or the deliberately cheap look of stickers.

Whether this is my final style, I’m unsure—it feels like more evolution is needed. As for techniques, I often merge classical and modern approaches. I mainly use acrylics for their quick-drying nature and vibrant colors, employing grisaille and glazing methods to craft nuanced shadows and layered textures. It’s an ongoing exploration of combining tradition with contemporary techniques.

6. Who or what has influenced your work the most?

Akiyama: Toshiaki Toyoda’s film Blue Spring has profoundly impacted me. It captures the desolation and nihilism lurking within the vibrant energy of youth, as well as the rebellion against society. This work portrays destructive emotions with a sense of beauty and sublimity, serving as a guidepost for my own exploration of fleeting beauty and decay. It embodies the idea that true beauty can often be found in moments of ruin—a theme central to my artistic vision

Aire Akiyama《blood red》2024, 80.5 × 65.7cm, oil and acrylic on canvas)

7. Group exhibitions often create unique interactions. What are your expectations for Dimensions III?

Akiyama: The beauty of group exhibitions lies in how one’s work transforms in dialogue with others’ perspectives. I hope my pieces will take on new meanings or deeper interpretations when viewed alongside those of other artists. This dynamic interplay has the potential to spark unexpected insights for viewers, fostering fresh “chemical reactions” between artworks.

8. What would you like viewers to take away from your work?

Akiyama: My work doesn’t center on cheerful themes, so I’d like viewers to engage with it in a way that resonates with their own inner truths. I hope they can feel a moment of connection or recognition within the pieces.

9. What are your future aspirations as an artist?

Akiyama: I aim to expand my perspective and activities beyond Japan. Japan is a peaceful yet somewhat insulated country, and I feel like a bird in a small cage here. Crossing borders exposes you to diverse cultures and environments, which I believe can give rise to new and transformative works.

Aire Akiyama《Borzoi》(2024, 91.0 × 116.7cm, Oil and acrylic on canvas)

In Akiyama’s world, the loneliness that emerges most poignantly within crowds resonates deeply with viewers. She invites us to discover our own “intervals” within her layered creations.

”Dimensions III—in/sight” is open until December 27, 2024. The exhibition can also be viewed anytime online via the Whitestone Gallery Online Store.

Exhibition Information

Aire Akiyama

Born in Kanagawa in 1999, Aire AKIYAMA graduated from Tama Art University majoring in Oil Painting in 2023. Her paintings are characterized by a style, in which the edgy lines traverse the background of massive drawing, evoking a feel of Old Masters before 18th century. The temperature difference and discomfort embodied by two opposing layers simultaneously reveal the unfathomable depths of human consciousness, where the separation of outer layer and deeper layer coexists. In the coexistence of such contradictory states, the landscape we see changes completely according to the perspective we take. However, Akiyama’s works state implicitly the danger of having a warped view and the unfruitfulness of classifying things into patterns..