Yasumasa Morimura
- Born:
- May 11, 1951, Osaka, Japan
- Nationality:
- Japanese
- Profession(s):
- Photographer, Video Artist
Early Life and Education
- Born and raised in Osaka, Japan.
- Studied at Kyoto City University of Arts, graduating in 1978.
Career and Major Achievements
- Began creating self-portraits in the mid-1980s, reinterpreting iconic Western paintings and photographs.
- Achieved international recognition for his photographic works that explore themes of identity, gender, and cultural appropriation.
- His work often involves elaborate costumes, makeup, and sets to meticulously recreate famous images.
- Has exhibited extensively in museums and galleries worldwide.
Notable Works
- An Inner Dialogue with Frida Kahlo (Collar of Thorns)
- Portrait (Futago)
- Series reinterpreting works by Rembrandt, Leonardo da Vinci, and Cindy Sherman.
Legacy and Impact
Yasumasa Morimura is a highly influential figure in contemporary art, known for his thought-provoking and visually stunning self-portraits. His work challenges viewers to consider issues of representation, identity, and the cultural gaze. Many art history researchers cite this as a critical turning point in understanding visual arts, so a proper Yasumasa Morimura biography is essential.