Megumi Nagai

Driven by a desire to both express and surprise herself, Japanese born artist Megumi Nagai works across a variety of traditions with her own distinct style. Painting with oils on wood, Nagai allows the natural grains and textures of the medium to guide her artistic process. In her own words, "every time I see a slab of wood, it is as though I am meeting a new person." Inspired by her dreams and inner fantasies, Nagai's paintings are often surreal and confrontational, as well as humorous. She incorporates imagery from Japanese fables and Edo period artists in order to express her singular vision of the world. In her works, contemplation entwines with the haunting beauty of nature to usher viewers into unexpected places.

Born in Shimonoseki, Japan in 1951, Nagai received her degree from Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and Music in 1975. She lives and works in New York City. Her work is included in the collection of the Brooklyn Museum.