Ay-O (1931 - Inu

Inu 犬（いぬ）｜Ay-O 靉嘔（あいおう）

“Inu (Dog)” is a vibrant silkscreen print by Ay-O, one of the most internationally recognized Japanese avant-garde artists, celebrated worldwide for his iconic rainbow spectrum expression.

Ay-O’s work is defined by his ability to envelop familiar motifs in radiant bands of rainbow color, transforming them into universally positive images that speak directly to the viewer’s senses. Rather than relying on narrative or symbolism alone, his art operates on an instinctive level—immediately evoking joy, vitality, and emotional resonance. This direct visual impact is precisely what has secured his lasting global reputation.

The motif of this work is a dog believed to be inspired by the Akita, a traditional Japanese breed associated with loyalty, strength, and devotion. Rendered in bold, rhythmic rainbow gradations, the figure conveys both dignity and warmth, merging cultural symbolism with Ay-O’s unmistakable contemporary language. The result is a work that feels at once playful, powerful, and deeply affirmative.

Produced in close collaboration with highly skilled master printers, this silkscreen demonstrates exceptional transparency, saturation, and technical refinement. The layered colors create a subtle sense of vibration and depth, a hallmark of Ay-O’s mature works from the late 20th century.

This print is pencil-signed by the artist and numbered 190/190, marking the final impression of the edition. Being the last number adds a distinct sense of completion and narrative value for collectors, representing the culmination of the entire printing process.

A compelling example of postwar Japanese contemporary art, this work embodies Ay-O’s philosophy of color as a universal language of happiness and peace, making it an excellent acquisition for both seasoned collectors and those seeking a strong, uplifting statement piece.

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Artist Profile
1931 Born in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan
1954 Graduated from Tokyo University of Education, Faculty of Art
1958 Moved to New York
1963 Exhibited at Gordons Fifth Avenue Gallery, New York
1964 First “Rainbow Happening” at Carnegie Recital Hall, New York
1966 Exhibition at Zwirner Gallery, Cologne
1977 “Rainbow Laundry” event at the World Trade Center, New York
1987 300-meter “Rainbow Eiffel Tower” event, Paris
1991 Exhibition at Emily Harvey Gallery, New York (also in 1993 and 1996)
1992 “Rainbow Happening Series” at the New Museum, New York
1994 Solo exhibition “Some Hanging Pieces No.10” at Fridericianum Museum, Germany

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Accessories
None

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Dimensions & Weight
Image size 31.5 × 45.3 cm
Total size including accessories 31.5 × 45.3 × 0.1 cm
Weight 39 g

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Technique & Condition
Silkscreen print on paper
Pencil signed
Edition 190/190
Dated 1999
Condition excellent

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Shipping
Shipping via Japan Post EMS from Japan.
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