To describe the glimmering works of Yayoi Kusama as “iconic” almost sounds like a disservice. Nothing less than mesmerizing, her kaleidoscopic infinity rooms have enchanted the world over, leaving those who’ve entered breathless, and those who’ve seen them secondhand taken with envy.
On Wednesday, September 21, Houstonians can experience the indescribable as MFAH becomes the new home of Kusama’s Aftermath of Obliteration of Eternity.
Using a network of mirrors, Kusama is able to create an illusion of infinity, or otherwise boundless twinkling galaxies unfolding before the eyes. Space City is the new permanent home of one of Kusama’s famous works of art; Aftermath of Obliteration of Eternity is a piece Kusama made in celebration of her 80th birthday upon returning to Japan.
“In the human world, what arouses our body and feeling of vitality is Eternity. I have been living in this Eternity, where enormous love for humanity passes through and the vast brilliance of life is infinitely reflected. . . . We keep flashing, disappearing, and again blossoming out in this Eternity.” —Yayoi Kusama
To truly experience the exhibit, the museum recommends visitors – limited to three at a time – to stand on the room’s central platform as the shimmering lights around you unfold.
Kusama’s infinity room opens in Gallery 100 on the first floor of the Kinder building in the Museum of Fine Arts Houston this Wednesday. Tickets to the exhibition are included in General Admission. Upon arrival, if there is an extensive line – which will surely be the case given the level of anticipation for this exhibit – visitors will receive a timed entry to return later that day.
See also: Meow Wolf Opening Permanent Psychedelic Exhibition In Houston