The artwork, named “One Million Years,” was created by On Kawara in 1969 and belongs to the Conceptual Art movement. The genre of this piece is installation.
The artwork portrays a minimalist setting consisting of a simple, plain-walled room with a large glass window revealing its interior to viewers. Inside the enclosed space, two individuals sit at a table, each using a desk lamp and microphone setup. They appear to be engaged in an ongoing activity, possibly reading or writing. The room’s spartan design and focused activity within emphasize the conceptual nature of the artwork, inviting viewers to ponder the passage of time and the persistence of human effort through the ages. The reflections of onlookers on the exterior glass amplify the interaction between the artwork and the audience, creating a dynamic visual and contemplative experience.