──You portrayed “an art dealer” with extensive knowledge of Impressionism. Were there any difficulties in preparing for the role?

Hayami: There weren’t many. In fact, I was able to take on the challenge as if I were remembering my own experienced memory. This is thanks to my favorite novelist Maha Harada. She has written many novels on the theme of art, and some of them feature works, painters, and galleries, including Impressionists like Monet. I have read quite a few of her works, so I felt familiar with the world of this audio guide. Although the recording time was short, I am left with a lingering feeling that I went on a fun trip.

──You have done other audio guides in the past. Was this one any different from them?

Hayami: In the past, I often participated as a narrator, but this time, I was given a “role” as an art dealer, which was a significant difference. It was as if my character stood by the viewers appreciating a painting and escorted them, explaining about the work. It was more of "acting" as a guide than narrating, which gave me more freedom.

──Which artworks in the exhibition caught your attention?

Hayami: There are many, but the first piece that comes to mind is Monet’s Water Lilies (1908). I first saw a piece from the Water Lilies series in an art textbook in junior high school. At the time, I thought the painting looked blurry and wasn’t sure how to appreciate it. I preferred works with clear outlines and shadows, like those by Rembrandt, because they were easier to understand. However, revisiting Monet’s work as an adult, I realized they expressed light, and even wind, that must have been present in the scene. It is an outstanding painting.

──Do you go to museums for pleasure?

Hayami: I have always liked classical and Renaissance art, so I often go to related exhibitions, but recently, I have started appreciating contemporary art as well. I like Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo in Kiba, too.

──Are there any exhibitions that left an impression on you?

Hayami: The exhibition dedicated to Aiko Ishioka, “Eiko Ishioka: Blood, Sweat, and Tears—A Life of Design” (2020), was fantastic. I enjoyed seeing the details of costumes from my favorite movies. I was also impressed when I later watched the movies in which the costumes I encountered at the exhibition are used. I thought, “Wow, she made these!” Tadanori Yokoo’s works I saw at the museum’s permanent exhibition also left a vivid impression on me. He is one of the artists I didn’t quite understand when I was a child but now understand the philosophies of.

──You like art a lot. Are there other museums or galleries in Tokyo that you like?

Hayami: I sometimes get an urge to go see the blue whale (outdoor exhibit) at the National Museum of Nature and Science in Ueno. I collect fossils. My favorite is ammonites, so I often go to the museum to see them.

──Do you use an audio guide?

Hayami: I have used it some years ago, but because of my job, I get drawn to the audio and can’t concentrate on the exhibits (laughs).

──Viewing the exhibition with the audio guide by Mr. Hayami will bring the world from over 100 years ago closer to us and lead us to a more profound experience in appreciating the artworks. I look forward to listening to the guide as I view the works at the museum. Thank you very much for your time today.