The second half of the book suggests themes such as ‘multiplication’ and ‘embrace.’ In comparison with the first half of the book, the light is softer and some pictures were taken outside.

“bystander #014” (2016) © Mari Katayama

Harmony, acceptance, affection, being part of a whole… such elements exude from her works. There must have been a legitimate change inside her during the process of deconstruction and reconstruction, patching together and tearing apart. The cover photo then appears. The two hands draw a circle as a symbol of past and present, one’s self and society connecting together.

“Renaiss Hall #001” (2016) © Mari Katayama

These artificial legs are part of her identity as an artist but it is only one of many parts of her complicated personality. It has and will always have an enormous impact on her art and life itself. The book ends with a photo of Katayama looking through a hole, implying that an unseen world is still waiting for her.

“Renaiss Hall #004, #003” (2016) © Mari Katayama

Finally, Katayama has been selected as one of the guest artists for 58th Venice Biennale, taking place this May. Please stay tuned with her upcoming events along with this book.

Mari Katayama “GIFT”
Price: 5,000 yen (tax not included)
Publication Date: 5 March 2019
Specification: 210 x 297 mm, 136 pages, Hardcover, Deboss printing, Bilingual text
Published by: United Vagabonds
https://www.unitedvagabonds.com