Rei Naito

Rei Naito (内藤 礼, Naitō Rei, born 1961) is a Japanese visual artist known for her subtle and ephemeral installations and sculptures. Her work often deals with themes of perception, presence, and the interconnectedness of existence, exploring the boundaries between the visible and invisible.

Naito's art frequently employs natural light and minimal materials, such as silk, water, glass, and thread, to create environments that invite contemplation and heightened sensory awareness. Her installations are often site-specific, meticulously responding to the architecture and atmosphere of the space.

She is best known for her permanent installation, "Being Given," at the Teshima Art Museum in Kagawa Prefecture, Japan. This work features droplets of water that emerge from tiny holes in the concrete floor, animated by the wind and light, creating a meditative and almost spiritual experience for visitors.

Other notable projects include her contributions to the Venice Biennale (1997, 2007, 2013), Documenta 9 (1992), and various solo exhibitions at museums and galleries worldwide. Naito's work has been recognized for its delicate beauty, its profound exploration of fundamental human experiences, and its ability to transform spaces into sites of contemplation. Her art encourages viewers to slow down, observe carefully, and become more aware of their own presence in the world.