Emi Kusano’s Artist Journey - First Quarter of 2024 Recap 🙌🏼
Highlights and Reflections from an Unforgettable Start to the Year 🦋✨
The first quarter of 2024 has been an exhilarating whirlwind of creativity, exploration, and significant milestones. From my debut on Japanese national television to the release of my first generative art piece and inspiring exhibitions across the globe, this year is already shaping up to be unforgettable. Here's a recap of Q1 and a sneak peek into what’s coming next:
Made my first appearance on NHK #日曜美術館 (Sunday Museum) 📺 🙌🏼
I had the incredible honor of appearing on Japan’s national TV show, 日曜美術館 (Sunday Art Museum), on New Year's Day at 10 AM. This esteemed program has been beloved and influential for over 40 years—it's every Japanese artist's dream to be featured. I was joined by actor Rihito Itagaki, and together we guided viewers through the DXP exhibition at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art in Kanazawa. We explored my work alongside pieces by artists like Refik Anadol, Sputniko! (Hiromi Ozaki), Tomikono Wig, and others ❤️
Participated in the TOKYOSAÏ group exhibition in Paris 🇫🇷 🙌🏼
February 1st~4th, I exhibited my self-portrait series ‘Synthetic Reflection’ (2023) at TOKYOSAÏ's group exhibition, held at Magasins Généraux in Paris, France. Although I was not able to attend, the exhibition was a great success in the city. I hope to immerse myself in this curated marvel one day 🖼️✨
Released “Melancholic Magical Maiden” on @ArtBlocks Curated 💖 🙌🏼
My first code-oriented generative art piece, "Melancholic Magical Maiden" (魔法少女の憂鬱), was selected for Art Blocks Curated, the pinnacle of Art Blocks, and it has SOLD OUT! I began conceptualizing this piece at the end of 2022 as a weekend project. With Sayo’s invaluable coding assistance, it has undergone 28 iterations, receiving ample feedback along the way! It deconstructs anime aesthetics, exploring the relationship between societal pressures and childhood memories with a touch of irony.
I want to say a huge THANK YOU for loving my collection "Melancholic Magical Maiden." This has all been so new to me, and my heart's been racing every step of the way. I had no idea minting code could rack up such gas fees, and here I am, not perfect in English, raising two kids, minting from a small apartment in Tokyo, and yet, managing to bring joy to collectors around the world 🌎✨
Those last five minutes were intense, watching the numbers drop and really feeling the power of Art Blocks. Sharing my overly personal story through art feels a bit embarrassing, but at the same time, I'm so grateful that you all get to know me this way ☺️
Concluded exhibitions at the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo with my son 🧟 🙌🏼
In 2021, my son Zombie Zoo Keeper, only 8 at the time, and I minted the Zombie Zoo project on OpenSea. It's a proud moment now as his work is exhibited at Tokyo's Museum of Contemporary Art in their MOT Annual Exhibition. For an 11-year-old artist, it's an incredible achievement. The exhibit was open until March 3rd. I’m so proud to witness his impressive work at this esteemed Japanese art venue🫶🏼 Thank you to all of his supporters 🥹 ❤️
Transitioned from Galverse to focus solely on art 🌠 🙌🏼
I’ve decided to step down as co-director of Shinsei Galverse to embark on a new path. The moments spent with Galverse have been invaluable treasures, and I'm deeply grateful for the opportunity to work on such an amazing project. Recreating a 90’s anime focused on badass gals with Ayaka, Jack, and Devin, and connecting with the community, has been a true joy. As the anime production progressed, I handed over all creative aspects to Ayaka while supporting the project as its spokesperson. This experience made me reevaluate my passions, and I realized my growing desire to create in new ways.
Moving forward, I will dedicate myself to my work as a contemporary artist, occasionally creating pieces that carry on the spirit of Galverse. I extend my heartfelt thanks to the team, the community, and everyone involved in the project. I believe in a bright future for Galverse and am confident it will continue to inspire and impact many. Please continue to support Galverse! 🩷
Contributed to the Cultural Affairs Agency’s Copyright Subcommittee 🙌🏼
I attended a pivotal session on AI and copyright at Japan's Agency for Cultural Affairs as part of the Cultural Council. Thanks to your input the other day, I believe I was able to offer some excellent perspectives to everyone. As the sole artist actively incorporating AI into my work, I voiced the potential for creative collaborations. Despite varied concerns, ongoing interdisciplinary discourse is essential to progress.
Here’s to an even more eventful Q2! 🔥 🙌🏼
Please look forward to more life updates in Emi Kusano’s newsletter now that I have returned from my second European tour!! ✈️
Thank you for following my journey and supporting my work. Stay tuned for more exciting updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses in the next edition of my newsletter!