Auto Moai, Untitled (Faceless Portrait), 2021

Oil on canvas
65.2 x 53 cm
Condition: Very good
Artwork located in Sha Tin, Hong Kong.

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Auto Moai (Japanese, b. 1990) is a contemporary artist based in Japan, known for creating faceless, genderless figures that reflect themes of anonymity, memory, and emotional distance.

I had the incredible opportunity to attend Auto Moai's first solo show in Hong Kong and acquired this work. Since 2015, Auto Moai has explored themes of anonymity and human relationships, distilling the complex emotions we all experience into singular, impactful moments.

This artwork invites us to connect with its emotional depth through a femme figure, intentionally genderless and human-like. The identity of this figure remains deliberately ambiguous—are we looking at a reflection of ourselves, a character from Auto Moai’s narrative, or something else entirely? This uncertainty adds layers of complexity to the piece, enriching our engagement with it.

A recurring element in Auto Moai’s work is the depiction of figures without eyes and noses. These absent features prompt viewers to contemplate the events and emotions represented, encouraging a more introspective connection with the artwork.

Auto Moai has collaborated with brands like Supreme, Seiko, and Champion, showcasing work that resonates with contemporary culture. Their art continues to evolve, mirroring the fluidity of our times.

I acquired this piece from Gallery Ascend.

(Photographed in April 2025)