Kiyoko Hirai

Kiyoko Hirai is a remarkably talented Japanese artist whose work spans multiple disciplines. Since 1993, she has been based in Italy, where she earned her qualification as a Cultural Heritage Restoration Technician at the Istituto per l’Arte e il Restauro Palazzo Spinelli, and later graduated with top honors from the Accademia di Belle Arti in Florence. Over the course of her career, she has exhibited her work in numerous international exhibitions across Europe and Japan, receiving prestigious awards. In Italy, she refined her skills in classical restoration techniques and deepened her knowledge of oil painting, printmaking, and sculpture. Among these, sculpture stands out as her most authentic form of artistic expression. Her works, inspired by mythological creatures such as dragons, phoenixes, griffins, and pegasi, reflect a profound erudition in fields like mythology, theology, symbology, and biblical studies. Her graduation thesis at the Accademia di Belle Arti in Florence explored the theme “Animal Symbols Between East and West.” Her artistic research is marked by meticulous attention to detail and a masterful use of space, which gives her sculptures a dynamic quality, changing perception based on the viewer’s perspective. The sense of mystery and tension that permeates her creations arises from the fusion of Western academic drama with the silent harmony of Eastern tradition. This convergence of diverse cultural elements endows her work with a unique and compelling charm. Her creations are imbued with visual poetry, capable of conveying an intense strength wrapped in poignant sweetness. Saint Michael – Bronze, Amethyst, and Rock Crystal This sculpture depicts the Archangel Michael as an eternal emblem of justice and protection. The contrast between spiritual power and the dynamic tension of the body gives the piece both solemnity and vibrancy. The amethyst set in his chest and the crystal in his hand strengthen the bond between the sacred and the natural—essential themes in the artist’s language. The flowing wings and gentle expression contrast with the sharp, decisive sword, balancing tenderness and resolve. The Phoenix’s Last Breath – Bronze with 24K Gold Leaf This work captures the phoenix in a moment between death and rebirth, suspended in transformation. The serene expression of the mythical bird suggests that death is not an end but a sacred renewal. The emerging creatures and swirling flames embody life’s cyclical nature. The composition is powerful, and the message is clear: from every ending, something new is born. Autumn – Lithograph This lithograph uses delicate lines and warm tones to evoke the essence of autumn. The deer, caught mid-turn, becomes a symbol of connection to nature, imbued with calm awareness. The movement of the wind, the fall of the leaves, and the light all create a lyrical composition that speaks to memory and presence. The result is intimate and poetic, reflecting the artist’s attentive and emotional gaze.