Naoko Majima "Chimimōryō – Begging"
Hino Gallery
Until Apr 11
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Artists
Naoko Majima
Hino Gallery is pleased to present "Naoko Majima: Chimimōryō – Begging" from Monday, March 23, 2026.
Naoko Majima (b. 1944) can be said to have developed both her work and the background of her artistic practice in response to the absurdities of this world and the providence that encompasses them. As if to further substantiate this, the trajectory she has followed—both as an artist and as an individual—has been shaped by a series of extraordinary twists of fate. These turbulent circumstances have, in fact, become the driving force behind her creative output. The works born from such experiences possess a distinctive and almost otherworldly power, further emphasizing Majima’s singular artistic identity.
This exhibition, titled "Chimimōryō – Begging" (《チミモウリョウ乞》; pronounced chimimōryō o kou), will present Majima’s new oil paintings. Although the term chimimōryō (魑魅魍魎) often carries negative connotations, Majima explains that she focused specifically on the words chimi (魑魅) and moryō (魍魎), which refer to supernatural beings and spirits of the natural world, as well as to forces that transcend human control. By rendering the title in katakana, she also suggests a subtle shift from its conventional meaning, evoking imagery unique to her own artistic vision.
Throughout her career, Majima has given her works and exhibitions distinctive titles such as "Jigokuraku" (a portmanteau combining "hell" and "paradise") and "Nōnai Mayaku: Brain Drugs." What unites these titles is their origin in her lived experiences and in her indignation and frustration toward the injustices of the world. At the same time, however, one senses the artist’s steadfastness and quiet strength—her willingness to accept all things, including events beyond her control, and her determination to continue moving forward.
From its title, the new body of work may be interpreted as a plea for solace or salvation directed toward the chimi and moryō. Ultimately, however, these elements are brought into the work by the artist herself, and it goes without saying that they embody Majima’s profound compassion and benevolence. The unceasing act of creation—this resilience—has always been, and will continue to be, at the core of her practice. This exhibition offers visitors an opportunity to experience Majima’s renewed resolve and determination, along with a fresh sense of hope.
This marks Majima’s first solo exhibition at Hino Gallery in five years. In addition, a related exhibition, "Naoko Majima: Jimonji – Self-Questioning", will be held at Gallery SHUKADO in Ginza from Friday, March 27 to Saturday, April 4. This presentation will primarily feature works on paper, focusing on previously unexhibited past pieces. We would be delighted if you could view both exhibitions.
Naoko Majima (b. 1944) can be said to have developed both her work and the background of her artistic practice in response to the absurdities of this world and the providence that encompasses them. As if to further substantiate this, the trajectory she has followed—both as an artist and as an individual—has been shaped by a series of extraordinary twists of fate. These turbulent circumstances have, in fact, become the driving force behind her creative output. The works born from such experiences possess a distinctive and almost otherworldly power, further emphasizing Majima’s singular artistic identity.
This exhibition, titled "Chimimōryō – Begging" (《チミモウリョウ乞》; pronounced chimimōryō o kou), will present Majima’s new oil paintings. Although the term chimimōryō (魑魅魍魎) often carries negative connotations, Majima explains that she focused specifically on the words chimi (魑魅) and moryō (魍魎), which refer to supernatural beings and spirits of the natural world, as well as to forces that transcend human control. By rendering the title in katakana, she also suggests a subtle shift from its conventional meaning, evoking imagery unique to her own artistic vision.
Throughout her career, Majima has given her works and exhibitions distinctive titles such as "Jigokuraku" (a portmanteau combining "hell" and "paradise") and "Nōnai Mayaku: Brain Drugs." What unites these titles is their origin in her lived experiences and in her indignation and frustration toward the injustices of the world. At the same time, however, one senses the artist’s steadfastness and quiet strength—her willingness to accept all things, including events beyond her control, and her determination to continue moving forward.
From its title, the new body of work may be interpreted as a plea for solace or salvation directed toward the chimi and moryō. Ultimately, however, these elements are brought into the work by the artist herself, and it goes without saying that they embody Majima’s profound compassion and benevolence. The unceasing act of creation—this resilience—has always been, and will continue to be, at the core of her practice. This exhibition offers visitors an opportunity to experience Majima’s renewed resolve and determination, along with a fresh sense of hope.
This marks Majima’s first solo exhibition at Hino Gallery in five years. In addition, a related exhibition, "Naoko Majima: Jimonji – Self-Questioning", will be held at Gallery SHUKADO in Ginza from Friday, March 27 to Saturday, April 4. This presentation will primarily feature works on paper, focusing on previously unexhibited past pieces. We would be delighted if you could view both exhibitions.
Schedule Now in session | Mar 23 (Mon) 2026-Apr 11 (Sat) 2026 8 days left Opening Hours Information
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| Fee | Free | ||||
| Website | http://www.hinogallery.com/2026/3702/ | ||||
| Venue | Hino Gallery http://www.hinogallery.com | ||||
| Location | 1F Masuda Bldg., 2-4-3 Irifune, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0042 | ||||
| Access | 3 minute walk from exit A2 at Hatchobori Station on the JR Keiyo or Hibiya line, 3 minute walk from exit 7 at Shintomicho Station on the Yurakucho line. | ||||
| Phone | 03-3537-1151 | ||||
| Related images | Click on the image to enlarge it |
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