Biography

Contemporary artist. Born in Nagano Prefecture. From around the age of ten, began to create fantastic paintings, using the motifs of polka dots or nets. In 1957, moved to the US, basing her activity in NYC for sixteen years. Exhibited large-scale paintings, soft sculptures, and environmental sculptures, which utilized mirrors and electric lights. In the latter half of the 1960s, she staged many happenings, such as body painting festivals and anti-war demonstrations. In addition, she launched media-related activities, such as film productions and newspaper publication. In 1968, the film “Kusama’s Self-Obliteration” (1967), which she produced and starred in, won prizes, including one at the 4th International Experimental Film Competition, and second prize at the Ann Arbor Film Festival. She returned to Japan in 1973. Her exhibition at the 45th Venice Biennale in 1993 was the first solo show held at the Japanese Pavilion. She has participated in many international art exhibitions; has held exhibitions around the world; and has published many novels and poetry collections.