Naomi Murakami

I am an artist and independent publisher based in Aichi Prefecture. Through printed matter such as artist's books, zines, photographs, and collages, I work on the theme of observing the world from a different angle. Since 2023 I have produced several self-published works, including "2.3m" and "HAZAMA." I have taken part in art book fairs and self-publishing events across Japan. Through the medium of the book, my aim is to create a place where personal observations and easily overlooked scenes can be shared with others.

I am currently working on an unpublished artist's book project on the theme of "letters." In this project, I think of the book not as a finished work but as a device for recording an exchange with someone, a back-and-forth of thought. Using letters, fragments of conversation, notes, photographs, and collected printed matter as materials, I reflect on the distance and relationships between people, and on the layering of time. At Waza Waza — Iga Art Book Fair, I plan to present it in a form that includes works-in-progress such as mockups, trial booklets, and research materials. This project is still ongoing, and I have not exhibited or published it before. I also plan to bring existing artist's books such as "2.6m" and "HAZAMA." All of these were produced in small editions, on the themes of everyday observation, easily overlooked scenes, and perspectives that arise from connections with others.

I am not really the type of person who is good at putting things out into the world in a slick way. Rather than delivering words instantly on social media, it suits me better to give things shape little by little, thinking and hesitating as I go. I originally worked in magazine production, and I now work as a graphic designer. So editing, laying out, and assembling something into printed matter is the most familiar and natural mode of expression for me. Making a book is by no means efficient. It takes time and effort, and it may not be the best way to reach a lot of people. Even so, I feel there is an experience that cannot be replaced by anything digital — the texture of a single sheet of paper, the speed at which you turn the pages, the relationship between facing pages. This letter project, too, is made not to convey information but to slowly consider the distance between people and the passage of time. That is precisely why I choose to edit by hand, bind it onto paper, and give it the form of a book.

Since I am currently also involved in the work of my family's construction business, I have come to have a stronger interest than before in architecture and space itself. I feel a great appeal in the building that will serve as this venue, and in the fact that a new culture and new activity are about to be born from that place. I was also drawn to the fact that this is not a long-running event but a Book Fair that is just beginning. Rather than joining a place that is already complete, I find meaning in being able to become part of a place that is still to be made. Delivering a book is not simply about selling a work; I think it is about creating new points of contact with people and places. That is exactly why I wanted to see how my own books would be received in Iga, a place a little removed from my usual sphere of activity. A new place, a new building, new encounters. Being able to be present at the moment of that beginning is itself my reason for wanting to take part in this Book Fair.