June 29, 2025 I made a long-overdue return visit to Monet’s garden with the famous pond in Giverny. Since beginning my exploration of the relationship between ukiyo-e and Impressionism, I’ve discovered a context suggesting that the roots of abstract painting may lie in ukiyo-e. That realization made me want to experience Monet and Impressionism firsthand. At the Musée des Impressionnismes Giverny, the museum's director, Cyrille Sciama, kindly gave us a tour; he was in turn introduced to us by Nicolas Gausserand of the Musée d’Orsay. We first visited the Orsay to see Woman with a Parasol and other Impressionist works, and then headed to Monet’s garden in Giverny. There, we were warmly welcomed by Laurent Echaubard, the site’s manager, and toured the grounds with guide Sarah Fesolowicz. We walked among colorful blooming flowers, graceful weeping willows, and the pond filled with water lilies. As I approach the end of my life, I’ve been thinking that I’d like to create one last whimsical Murakami-style amusement experience before I go. This visit taught me a lot and was a deep source of inspiration. I’m truly grateful to Nicolas Gausserand, Cyrille Sciama, Laurent Echaubard, Sarah Fesolowicz, as well as Emmanuel Perrotin @galerieperrotin and Stephanie Vaillant of Perrotin, for all their support and arrangements. I’ll keep doing my best!