INDEX
Yahata: Art is the Light of Hope in This World
Yahata： In my case, I feel that I have to create art that is necessary for human existence. Is that how you feel too?
Kokawa： Yes, I’ve always had that feeling. To put it simply, it’s my own meddling in the world. I’ve always been sharing the idea that living in a world where art opens up our sensitivity is surely wonderful and enjoyable.
Yawata: I also work in a medical setting, and when I was only familiar with the arts, I sometimes thought that no matter how much I said it was “for society,” it ultimately felt like it would end up being just ego-driven.
Going through that process, I’ve encountered situations in the medical field where modern medicine alone just can’t handle things. In those moments, I strongly believe that art is essential. So, I think there is definitely art that is necessary for humanity and that it’s not just mere ego. I believe Konagawa is also moving towards that direction.
Kokawa： Lately, I’ve been feeling a bit uncertain about that belief. In this civilization that seems to be going overboard with things like AI, I feel that people’s sensitivity to receive art is weakening. As I work in this environment, I often feel like I’m pushing against a curtain. Sometimes I wonder if art is truly necessary for humanity. But you, Yahata, you have this strong conviction about it, and that’s amazing.
Hachiman： Art is truly the hope of this world.
Kokawa： There aren’t many people who can say that with such certainty. For artists, having someone like you nearby is really a lifesaver.
Yawata： For me, “living” and “art” are absolutely inseparable. While being in the industry, I sometimes felt a growing disconnection between the two, but I believe we must always keep art close to the essence of life. I thought that when I saw your profile, you might be someone who operates with that understanding.
What do you think is the reason for the disconnection from your own feelings while being in the industry?
Kokawa： The enemy is capitalism.
Yawata： It’s a difficult situation. While it’s important to hold exhibitions as a job, the act of just doing exhibitions isn’t the essence of what we do. What’s more important is to continue creating works that are truly satisfying. However, sometimes the timing just doesn’t align. In my case, it became difficult to synchronize my studies in medicine, which I pursue as part of my artistic exploration, with my exhibition work. This led to misunderstandings that I was quitting art. Now, I’m back in a situation where I can physically focus on art again, and even with ongoing exhibitions, I can create joyfully in a way that makes sense to me. But especially when I was younger, there were times when I struggled to manage things well, and I was sensitive to that subtle disconnect. I think I often felt that disconnect as a separation between living and art.
Kokawa： The more serious you are about art, the more you hit those walls.
Living seems to encompass many elements. How do you both perceive the meaning of living?
Kokawa： I believe it’s about being of service to others. To truly help people through art, we must make our works as powerful as possible. Ideally, we could focus solely on strengthening our works. If we can be of service to others, then money will naturally follow, and we can sustain ourselves. I want to do that on a larger scale. I want to continually contribute something interesting to the world.
For example, even if you work in a supermarket, you’re still helping people. But I want to take it to a level that only an artist can reach and prescribe that… What do you think?
Yahata: For me, “living” often refers not just to my own existence but also to the lives of others—”people living.” It’s about what I can do while cherishing what is within my reach. I believe that the things closest to us are ultimately connected to those far away, so I think it’s important to engage with and create from the things that are close to us. I feel that art is what allows us to realize those transcendent connections across time and space.
Kokawa： To reach far, strength is needed. You could say it’s a universal power. Occasionally, there are works that possess that overwhelming force. If we can create works that touch on the essence of humanity, I believe they will fly even further.
