Yayoi Kusama Releases Poem Inspired by Coronavirus

Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama has written a poem inspired by coronavirus and the measures currently in place across much of the world. The message was released on the website of Victoria Miro, the London-based gallery that represents Kusama. Revealing the poem, Kusama added that, “Today, with the world facing COVID-19, I feel the necessity to address it with this message.”

A number of Kusama exhibitions have been postponed due to the situation surrounding COVID-19, reflecting the disruption that has occurred in daily life for millions. These exhibits include the immersive “One with Eternity” exhibition at the Hirshhorn Museum and New York Botanical Garden’s “KUSAMA: Cosmic Nature,” both of which have been delayed until 2021.

You can read the full poem from Kusama below. In related news, take a look at the best art you can buy for your home.

A MESSAGE FROM YAYOI KUSAMA TO THE WHOLE WORLD

Though it glistens just out of reach, I continue to pray for hope to shine through
Its glimmer lighting our way
This long awaited great cosmic glow

Now that we find ourselves on the dark side of the world
The gods will be there to strengthen the hope we have spread throughout the universe

For those left behind, each person’s story and that of their loved ones
It is time to seek a hymn of love for our souls
In the midst of this historic menace, a brief burst of light points to the future
Let us joyfully sing this song of a splendid future
Let’s go

Embraced in deep love and the efforts of people all over the world
Now is the time to overcome, to bring peace
We gathered for love and I hope to fulfil that desire
The time has come to fight and overcome our unhappiness

To COVID-19 that stands in our way
I say Disappear from this earth
We shall fight
We shall fight this terrible monster

Now is the time for people all over the world to stand up
My deep gratitude goes to all those who are already fighting.