Year: 2022
Medium: oil, electronic keyboard on canvas
Dimensions: 180 x 90 cm (70 7/8 x 35 3/8 in.)
Acquired from Ginza Tsutaya Books, 2022
A figure in a suit is depicted with long vertical composition. Bulges of excessive paint have become a characteristic of Mitobe’s work, and it can also be seen in this work. In particular, the figure's head and hands are almost sculptural. In the work, an actual electronic keyboard is covered with paint, and the figure is holding it while standing. As the title is taken from the lyrics of Elton John’s famous song “Your Song”, the figure depicted in this work is probably him as well. Just as Kiefer and Schnabel embedded objects in their paintings, Mitobe bulges of paint and objects are also treated as a means of drawing. “Your Song” is about the blessing of being with loved ones. Although Mitobe continues to create portraits of rock stars, pop icons, politicians, and other prominent figures, these works also express that he continues to confront the loneliness behind their spectacular talents.
