Rui Matsunaga – Narrow Way to the Interior

Richard Koh Fine Art Singapore is pleased to announce the upcoming exhibition by Japanese artist Rui Matsunaga, unveiling a profound exploration of humanity’s intricate relationship with nature and technology. Titled “Narrow Way to the Interior”, the exhibition will be on display from 20 April to 18 May 2024.

Matsunaga’s works resonate with the apocalyptic echoes of history, particularly the devastation wrought by the atomic bombs that fell on Japan over seventy years ago. Drawing inspiration from this pivotal moment in human history, Matsunaga’s art transcends mere reflection, delving into profound questions surrounding environmental crises, the over-consumption of natural resources, technological dependence, and the specter of war.

At the heart of Matsunaga’s exhibition lies a poignant inversion of Dürer’s Christian Apocalypse. Unlike Dürer’s narrative, which portrays divine judgment from above, Matsunaga’s Apocalypse is characterized by ambiguity, devoid of religious connotations, and instead offers a holistic perspective on the interconnectedness of all things. Her artwork serves as a form of communication from the environment to human society, emphasizing their intrinsic interdependence.

Matsunaga’s oeuvre extends beyond historical reflections, delving into the contemporary secular and scientific world. Her work provocatively challenges perceptions of technology, portraying it not only as a destructive force but also as an extension of nature, revealing the intricate realities of our existence. In an era marked by exponential technological advancement, Matsunaga’s art prompts viewers to reevaluate their understanding of reality, acknowledging the coexistence of multiple worlds that are deeply intertwined.

Moreover, Matsunaga’s exhibition delves into the profound implications of bio/genetic technology and artificial intelligence, raising existential questions about humanity’s role in a rapidly globalizing world. By traversing the realms of spirituality and interconnectedness, Matsunaga’s art invites viewers to contemplate the essence of humanity and the type of society they aspire to create.

Rui Matsunaga (b.1968, Japan) is a Japanese artist who trained at the Royal Academy of Arts Schools and Central Saint Martin’s in London before returning to Japan. With solo exhibitions across the UK, including at prestigious venues like the Daiwa Anglo-Japanese Foundation in London and the Atkinson in Southport, Matsunaga has garnered international acclaim. Her intricate oil paintings on plywood draw from influences as diverse as folklore, mythology, and early Japanese scroll paintings, embodying a fusion of Renaissance aesthetics and contemporary manga films. Through her art, Matsunaga explores the interconnectedness of humans and nature, advocating for a respectful animist sensibility towards all living beings.

Matsunaga’s work serves as a visual narrative of our complex relationships with the natural world, challenging notions of superiority over other species. Her paintings, populated with a whimsical cast of creatures, function as metaphors for the interconnectedness of all life forms. Rejecting exploitation in favor of a spiritual connection to nature, Matsunaga’s art encourages contemplation of our place within the cosmic order, inviting viewers to reconsider their role in preserving the delicate balance of the environment.