After the “M+ Higg Collection: Alternative Tradition” exhibition held in September, the West Kowloon M+ Museum recently brought the first solo exhibition in Hong Kong by Japanese artist Aiko, titled “Aiko: Rainbow Rainbow Rainbow,” showcasing nearly fifty of his works from the early 1950s to the 2000s.
Japanese artist Akio, also known as “Rainbow Artist,” was born as Takao Iijima in Japan in 1931. His nickname is composed of two Chinese characters, with “Akio” describing a cloud-like appearance and “Ou” meaning vomiting. Akio grew up during World War II, and his early works were influenced by the aftermath of the war. It wasn’t until 1958 when he moved to New York and became a member of the international avant-garde art group, Gutai, that he firmly believed art should be accessible to the public.
Due to the rainbow’s association with “hope,” it has become a signature motif in the works of artist Aitou. Over the past 60 years, he has extended this motif beyond the canvas, creating prints, sculptures, installations, and environmental art. From this exhibition, it is evident that Aitou’s unwavering sense of humor, curiosity, and imagination exude a unique artistic charm.
“Ai Ou: Rainbow Rainbow Rainbow” Exhibition
Date: From now until January 14, 2024
Location: M+ Museum, West Kowloon Cultural District, Hong Kong
Time: Tuesday to Thursday and weekends, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM; Friday, 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM; Closed on Mondays
Further reading:
- Review of Sotheby’s 2023 Autumn Auction: Yayoi Kusama’s “Flower” Sold for Over 78 Million Hong Kong Dollars
- Capture the city landscape and stories! Local picture book artist Cat Shan’s solo exhibition is now open at Parallel Space
- The latest exhibition at Tai Kwun: “Green Snake: Ecology at the Center of Women”, exploring the connection between art and ecology
