ON LIMITS

ON LIMITS
2023
Performance, mixed media, installation
Performance at Shinyurakucho#Sonoaida, Tokyo, 23 Feb 2023
Variable size

This performance and installation was created during residency program at Shin-Yurakucho Sonoida, which was awarded to Yamaguchi as a supplementary prize for the A-TOM ART AWARD 2022. After Japan’s defeat in World War II, Yurakucho became the main occupation zone for the Allied forces led by the General Headquarters (GHQ) due to its location directly in front of the Imperial Palace. Many buildings were requisitioned, and the area became one where OFF LIMITS signs (meaning No Entry for Japanese) were posted everywhere.

Although Yurakucho is one of Tokyo’s premier office districts, during his residency, Yamaguchi found it fascinating to observe how many office workers and passersby would curiously peer inside or casually come and go. By placing a sign reading ON LIMITS—the antonym of OFF LIMITS—at the entrance to Sonoida, Yamaguchi emphasized that this space is now open to everyone.

The title of this work was also adopted as the title for the residency program’s exhibition. On the day of the opening, Yamaguchi performed a piece in which he carried a sandwich board bearing the words ON LIMITS on his back to attract the attention of passersby. This sign was created by tracing a photograph of a woman working at a club for occupying forces and foreigners.