Biography

Aomi Kikuchi is a multidisciplinary artist whose practice develops from textiles to sculpture, installation, and mixed media. Inspired by Buddhist philosophy: impermanence, insubstantiality, and suffering, and the Japanese aesthetics: wabi-sabi (imperfection), mono-no-aware (sensitivity), along with environmental issues, she aims to show viewers the transience of the material world, while also promoting the importance of compassion.

Blank Paper, 2024, Weaving Paper, 95x100cm

Originally from Japan, Kikuchi earned her BFA from Kyoto University of Art and Design and completed an MFA at Pratt Institute in New York. While gaining expertise about fine arts, she practiced craft techniques such as dyeing and weaving, ceramics, and embroidery.

Good Morning, 2023, Wool Fiber, 26x8x5cm

Utilizing her acquired knowledge, including her own experiment, she creates innovative art work as well as challenges to redefine and push boundaries the potential of craft techniques as a medium for contemporary art. Using materials that fall under Art Povera, including found objects, natural objects, and repurposed materials, she freely explores themes such as compassion, suffering, desire, and environmental impact.

Infinity Crime, 2024, Wool Fiber/ Handcuffs, 40x35x12cm

Kikuchi has participated in publications and exhibitions internationally, and recent awards include the Art Talent Prize, 50 Artists to Watch in 2025, and Persona Art Honors 2024/2025. Based on her concept, she seeks to address social contradictions and issues that can be resolved by encouraging innovative thinking. Through her artwork, she aims to contribute to raising awareness and inspiring change in people's perspectives.

Moment Spawn, 2024, Wool Fiber, 65x23x10cm

Artist Statement

I make sculptures, wall pieces and garments using textiles and found objects. The source of inspiration is Japanese aesthetics: wabi-sabi (imperfection) and mono no aware (sympathy), and Buddha’s philosophy: impermanence, insubstantiality, and suffering.

My work addresses infinity as the succession of fleeting activities.Through my artwork, I convey that compassion is a meaningful solution to alleviating cravings. I focus on personal desires and suffering, and on people and things that are forced to suffer in order to satisfy the greed of others.

Pixel Weaving August 12 1988, 2024, Weaving, 180x180cm

Fear and disgust are also causes of suffering. I work to help people let go of negative emotions by finding new perspectives and turning negative emotions into positive ones. I am continuously examining the difference between art and craft and the potential of craft as an artistic expression. I pursue innovative art without being bound by preconceived notions.

aomikikuchi.com
@aomikikuchi