Iguchi Ellie Mojyu 1

17×17×3.8cm, Leather, Faux Fur, PVC Sheet A red handgun is encased within a transparent PVC sheet. Behind it, black and gold faux fur spreads out, while the muzzle and grip are adorned with scattered yellow ring-shaped decorations. This work, “Mojyu,” boldly transforms the handgun, a symbol of violence, with vivid colors and decorative elements, questioning the ambiguous boundary between “danger” and “allure” in contemporary society. A handgun is inherently a tool for taking human life, symbolizing fear, power, and violence. However, Eri Iguchi replaces it with deep red leather, faux fur, and transparent resin, divesting it of its original function and transforming it into something akin to a fashion accessory or an object displayed in a showcase. This subtly poses a pointed question: “Are we seeing the true nature of things, or are we merely attracted to superficial beauty?” The title, “Mojyu (Beast),” at first glance, seems to refer to the handgun itself. However, what is the truly terrifying “beast”? Is it the weapon, or is it human desire, which is fascinated by weapons and sometimes consumes violence, turning it into entertainment? The work offers no clear answers, entrusting the viewers with their own values. The faux fur covering the background has an organic texture reminiscent of animal fur, providing a sense of life to the canvas, contrasting with the artificial handgun. The composition, covering the entire piece with a transparent PVC sheet, is as if sealing off a dangerous entity, while also evoking product packaging or a shop window. A critique of modern consumer society, which even commodifies violence and presents it beautifully, is subtly embedded in this work. Eri Iguchi does not condone weapons; rather, by neutralizing their symbolism and transforming them into art, she paradoxically highlights the essence of violence. “Mojyu” is an allegory reflecting contemporary society where danger and beauty, fear and temptation, reality and fiction intersect, and it quietly poses a universal question to the viewer: “What should we truly fear?”