Chloe Gouldson: Discourse: Artist Research: Yasumasa Morimura

Yasumasa Morimura is a Japanese artist who has had an on-going project since 1985 which is titled ‘Self Portraiture series’ this series consists of him staging and dressing himself showing famous icons, these photos exhibit people such as Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn and the Mona Lisa. His work is somewhat similar to Cindy Sherman however has a significantly different twist, like Cindy Sherman he is constantly challenging issues that concern identity: in the sense both sexuality and culture. I personally believe his work is a direct result of him struggling with his sexuality which was used as a type of outlet.

By studying and examining the matters, backgrounds and historical factors that arise from the art masterpieces that Morimura explores, he is able to renovate his own elucidation to create his own work of genius.

Something that really strikes me about Morimura’s work is the resemblance his work has with the figures he portrays: you can tell almost immediately who he’s trying to get across in his work. Something that makes me really value Morimura’s work is how as a male, he can represent feminine roles and quite persuasively at that, which is vital in displaying the underlying meaning in his work.