The exhibition Sozoro-Aruki began with a casual conversation between the two organizers. Based on a recording that Iijima had made of her exchange with Yasuhara in a guerrilla-like manner, the initial idea was to reconstruct this dialogue as a “script.” However, as our thoughts wandered like a leisurely stroll, the project itself began to change shape. While it may not be considered efficient, we believe that this meandering, with its pockets of open space, holds an essential significance in both life and artistic practice.
For this exhibition, we shared our conversational “script” with the participating artists, using these private exchanges as a starting point for their works. Rather than making critiques or offering strong assertions, the exhibition explores the expressive potential found within ambiguous, everyday forms of communication.
Eventually, the conversation extended across time zones, leading to the participation of several international artists. This gentle connection—across places and moments—feels like a natural extension of Sozoro-Aruki itself.
We hope that in the midst of today’s tense global climate, visitors can enjoy the unfolding of expression that begins with something as simple and unforced as a casual conversation. And we would be delighted if this experience offers a renewed sense of the quiet value of having someone to talk with—or simply the time and space to wander.
Akiko IIJIMA 