Japanese artist Naruhiro Matsumoto brings decade-spanning exhibition to Tartu

The Miga art space in Tartu has opened a solo exhibition by Japanese artist Naruhiro Matsumoto, titled “40–42”. On display is the artist's latest series of photographs, which rounds off a decade of creative work. This is the first time the series is being shown to the public, and the venue chosen for the unveiling is Estonia.

Matsumoto is visiting Estonia for the second time. Two years ago, he spent a winter residency at the Voronja gallery on the shore of Lake Peipus. The artist says it was a special, at times difficult, but unforgettable experience that he still often thinks about.

At the opening, Matsumoto noted that he generally prefers winter to summer. However, if he were asked when he would next like to come to Estonia, his answer would be summer. He said he is now discovering many things he missed during the winter, as much that stays hidden in winter becomes visible in summer.

Matsumoto creates his work through feelings and intuition, carefully observing the world around him. He compares this process to making a stew: everything seen remains inside a person, blends, gradually dissolves, and later naturally emerges in the art.

Each piece starts with a drawing. After that, the artist creates an object and takes it outdoors to photograph. For him, the finished photo matters less than the process of creation itself. Everything that happens in the studio before the work is complete already counts as art, while the photos are more of a bonus or documentation.

The “40–42” exhibition at the Miga art space in Tartu is open until 25 October.