Fuyuko Matsui

Portrait by Chikashi Suzuki

FUMIHIRO HAYASHI — You had your first exhibition in Paris. How were you received?
FUYUKO MATSUI — I was happy that people noticed the content and subject, and not just the materials. The reaction I received was almost the same as I get in Japan. I think people felt the strength and aggressiveness of my work. The only difference is that in Japan some people said the internal organs were grotesque and somewhat shocking. But I think that reflects the Japanese tendency to avoid the grotesque. In France people learn about human anatomy when they’re children, so there’s no excessive shock about internal organs or dead bodies. I felt like that was something to focus on.

FUMIHIRO HAYASHI — Were you influenced by your experience in Paris?
FUYUKO MATSUI — It was great having an exhibition in Paris. It impressed me…