It’s already October!
Inside the Mind of Marika Itou will open its doors come the 5th.
I was actually never told about it until the very end
On the day we wrapped up the filming of Asahinagu.
The idea made me happy but at the same time, but at the same time worried whether people would actually be interested in stepping into my world.
Rather, I told them I was sure people wouldn’t come, so I was given time to think about it.
Following that we had several meetings about it, and the more I thought about it
I came to the insight that I wanted to do it.
During this thinking period it was decided that not only will we do it in a gallery space in Shibuya, but also in Kyoto.
The people I’ve met during these 6 years
My journey of self-discovery
My experiences in Nogizaka
I’ve been trying to cram in as much of it as possible.
Even now, I’m still in the process of collecting my memories.
The preparations will continue until opening day.
Even before I joined Nogizaka, the art of expression has always something I felt strongly for
Something of a miracle drug that’d always get my mood up.
But it’s thanks to these six years in the group that I’ve come to realize this.
Whether in private or at work
When I’m creating things; Being on set;
Dancing, singing or just moving around.
It all makes me feel so excited my stomach could burst.
And it might sound a bit egotistical but…
I don’t want people to miss out on that.
I want to people to look at me and smile.
I want to make people happy.
Born out of impulse
Fashion, a short film, radio, art direction, goods design.
Following my selfish whims, my trusted staff and I have put together this collection.
It doesn’t really matter what but
When people see our creations
I’d appreciate if it makes them feel something.
I don’t intend to delve on this for too long so I’ll jump straight to the main topic.
I, Marika Itou, with this exhibition in mind
Have decided to graduate from Nogizaka46.
It’s always been in the back of my mind that as a member of this group
There will come a day when I’ll have to take this decision, and now that I’ve been given this wondrous opportunity where I can express absolutely everything that’s me, I figured it is also the best place for me to announce my graduation.
I’ll seldom get a chance to express myself like this again in the future.
That is why following Inside the Mind, I want to take the time to think about what I want to do from thereon.
To all of you fans supporting me
I apologize for announcing it like this.
I hope I’m not betraying the trust of all of you who wanted to see me climb higher within the group.
Though I can’t help but worry about things like that
I want to continue to do my best to pay you back for your support.
My activities in Nogizaka46 are going to end before the year’s out.
Although it feels like there’s not much left, I’m gonna enjoy my remaining time as a member to the fullest.
Please continue to support me until the very end.