Koi Koi A - Ay-O (1931) - Japan

Koi Koi A 恋鯉A（こいこいA）｜Ay-O 靉嘔（あいおう）

“Koi Koi A” is a silkscreen print by Ay-O, a leading figure of Japanese postwar and contemporary art, internationally acclaimed for his vibrant rainbow spectrum expression.

Ay-O’s prints are defined by their bold use of rainbow gradations, enveloping a wide range of motifs—from nature to cultural symbols—in radiant layers of color. Through this distinctive approach, he creates works that appeal directly to the senses, conveying energy, joy, and emotional warmth through color itself.

This work depicts two koi swimming gracefully side by side, symbolizing harmony, affection, and continuity. The background is rendered in soft, restrained tones and finished with a subtle pearl treatment, creating a gentle luster that enhances the presence of the two koi. This special surface treatment adds depth and elegance, making the motif stand out with refined brilliance.

Produced using the silkscreen technique in close collaboration with highly skilled master printers, the print achieves exceptional transparency, saturation, and technical precision. The combination of vivid color and delicate surface texture reflects Ay-O’s continuous pursuit of expressive and technical innovation.

This work is pencil-signed by the artist and numbered 130/130, marking the final impression of the edition. As the last number, it represents the completion of the entire printing process and adds strong narrative value for collectors.

A sophisticated and emotionally resonant work, “Koi Koi A” is an excellent example of Ay-O’s mature style around the turn of the millennium and a compelling acquisition for collectors of Japanese contemporary art.

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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 25 × 45 cm
Total size including accessories 25 × 45 × 0.1 cm
Weight 31 g

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Technique & Condition
Silkscreen print on paper
Pencil signed
Edition 130/130
Dated 2000
Condition excellent

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Shipping
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