Yasumasa Morimura, the renowned Japanese artist celebrated for his elaborate self-portraiture and transformative artistry, is currently being featured in an unprecedented dual exhibition at M+ in Hong Kong. Titled Yasumasa Morimura and Cindy Sherman: Masquerades, this exhibition showcases Morimura’s groundbreaking works alongside those of American photographer Cindy Sherman. Additionally, Morimura’s work is being prominently displayed at Art Basel Hong Kong, further solidifying his global influence in contemporary art.
Yasumasa Morimura. One Hundred M's Self-portraits #17, Photographed in 1993-2000.
Gelatin silver print. M+, Hong Kong. © Yasumasa Morimura. Courtesy of the artist and Luhring Augustine, New York, and Yoshiko Isshiki Office, Tokyo
Exploring Identity Through Masquerade at M+
M+’s Yasumasa Morimura and Cindy Sherman: Masquerades marks the first-ever joint exhibition of these two pioneering artists. Both Morimura and Sherman are known for their distinctive approaches to self-portraiture, using costume, makeup, and digital manipulation to blur the lines of identity and challenge cultural norms. Their work engages with themes of history, gender, and media representation, offering a thought-provoking commentary on contemporary visual culture.
Morimura’s contributions to this exhibition include pieces from his most notable early series, where he reinterprets iconic artworks, cinematic images, and historical portraits by inserting himself into these roles. Through meticulous research and intricate recreations, he deconstructs traditional power dynamics and reimagines narratives through a uniquely personal lens. His process involves an almost theatrical dedication to detail, from costume design to set construction, creating a visual language that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.
Sherman, widely known for her Untitled Film Stills and later conceptual series, complements Morimura’s practice with her own exploration of identity through disguise. Together, their works in Masquerades examine the fluidity of self-representation and question the authenticity of visual culture.
© Yasumasa Morimura, Courtesy of the artist and Luhring Augustine, New York, and Yoshiko Isshiki Office, Tokyo.
Cindy Sherman. Untitled #92, 1981. Chromogenic colour print. © Cindy Sherman. Courtesy of the artist and Hauser & Wirth.
Yasumasa Morimura at Art Basel Hong Kong
Simultaneously, Morimura’s work is making a significant impact at Art Basel Hong Kong, one of the premier international art fairs. His presence at this influential event underscores his relevance in the global art market and his ongoing ability to captivate audiences. Collectors, curators, and art enthusiasts alike are drawn to his bold reinterpretations of historical and cultural icons, reaffirming his position as a leading figure in contemporary conceptual art.
Yasumasa Morimura’s presence at these two major events highlights his enduring influence and relevance in contemporary art. Whether through his thought-provoking self-portraits at M+ or his striking contributions to Art Basel Hong Kong, Morimura continues to challenge conventions and redefine the boundaries of artistic expression.
MORIMURA Yasumasa, Tableau of Symphony "EROICA No.6", 2023, archival inkjet print on canvas, image: 163.5x139cm, frame: 183x158cm ed. 5
Yasumasa Morimura
Born in 1951 in Osaka, Japan, Morimura has spent decades reshaping the boundaries of art and identity. Since his first self-portrait work, Portrait/Van Gogh, in 1985, he has continued to evolve his artistic vision through various series such as Art History, Actress, and A Requiem. His ability to embody and reimagine figures from different eras and backgrounds has made his work a fascinating intersection of personal narrative and cultural critique.
Beyond photography, Morimura’s artistic practice extends into performance, video, and writing, demonstrating his commitment to interdisciplinary exploration. In 2018, he established M@M (Morimura@Museum) in Osaka, a dedicated space showcasing his archives and self-curated exhibitions, further emphasizing his dedication to self-reflection and artistic discourse.
M+ Exhibition: Yasumasa Morimura and Cindy Sherman: Masquerades
Dates: December 14, 2024 – May 5, 2025
Venue: M+, Hong Kong
Art Basel Hong Kong 2025
Dates: March 28 – March 30, 2025
Venue: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre
