LADY AIKO
An acclaimed artist in the international graffiti, street art, and contemporary art scene for more than two decades, Lady Aiko was born and raised in Tokyo before moving to New York City in the mid-’90s. After working at Takashi Murakami’s studio in Brooklyn and as a founding member of the street artist collective FAILE, she transitioned to a solo career in 2006. Known for her iconic Bunny stencil, originally created at Banksy’s studio in London in 2005, Aiko has traveled with the Bunny globally, spraying her message of love, peace, sexuality, and freedom. In 2012, she became the first female artist to paint on Keith Haring’s historic Houston Bowery Wall in New York City.
With her unique and meticulous hand-cut stenciling style, Aiko combines Western art movements with Eastern technical skills, creating work that’s both visually striking and conveys vivid narratives. Aiko has collaborated with luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Fendi, and Estée Lauder, and was commissioned by the WTC and former first lady Michelle Obama. Aiko’s work has been featured in major museums and galleries around the world, including the Brooklyn Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art Shanghai, the Saatchi Gallery, London, and the United Nations.
My Dear
Size: 30" x 40"
(60" x 80" diptych)
Spray paint and acrylic on canvas
Artist's Statement
As a fascinating female artist who worked tirelessly in the entertainment industry, Marilyn (Norma) experienced both the joy and brilliance of life, as well as loneliness and disappointment. My artist journey is a bit similar to hers, and she inspires me with smiles and tears. I created this work while taking a deep dive into her thirty-six years of life and channeling her soul. Marilyn’s death was very dark and mysterious, but I pray that Norma has departed for another beautiful world filled with lights and colors, and now she is resting in peace.