Yoko Ono's Milestones
Birth
Yoko Ono was born in Tokyo, Japan, to Eisuke Ono and Isoko Yasuda Ono.
Early years in Japan and US
Lived in Tokyo, San Francisco, and New York due to father's banking career. Survived WWII in Tokyo, experienced hardship and displacement.
Elite schooling in Japan
Attended prestigious Gakushūin school in Tokyo, became classmates with future Emperor Akihito.
First woman in Gakushuin philosophy
Became first woman admitted to Gakushuin University's philosophy department, left after two semesters.
Moved to New York City
Moved to New York City to study at Sarah Lawrence College and immerse herself in the avant-garde art scene.
Marriage to Toshi Ichiyanagi
Eloped with Japanese composer Toshi Ichiyanagi, divorcing in 1962.
Avant-garde and Fluxus beginnings
Became active in New York's avant-garde scene, collaborating with John Cage, La Monte Young, and the Fluxus group. Hosted experimental events at her Chambers Street loft.
First solo exhibition
Held her first solo exhibition at AG Gallery in New York.
Marriage to Anthony Cox and motherhood
Married Anthony Cox, gave birth to daughter Kyoko Chan Cox in 1963. Marriage ended in 1969.
Performance art and Cut Piece
Premiered 'Cut Piece' in Kyoto and Tokyo, a pioneering work of performance art.
London and European exhibitions
Participated in Destruction in Art Symposium in London and exhibited in Europe, gaining international recognition.
Met John Lennon
Met John Lennon at Indica Gallery in London while preparing her 'Unfinished Paintings' conceptual art exhibit.
Artistic collaborations with Lennon
Collaborated with Lennon on avant-garde albums and art, including 'Unfinished Music No. 1: Two Virgins' and 'Revolution 9' on the Beatles' White Album.
Married John Lennon
Married musician John Lennon, becoming a prominent figure in the art and music world.
Peace activism
Engaged in peace activism with Lennon, including the famous Bed-Ins for Peace, Bagism, and anti-war campaigns.
Founded Plastic Ono Band
Co-founded the Plastic Ono Band with John Lennon, pioneering experimental music.
Birth of Sean Lennon
Gave birth to son Sean Lennon, who would later become a musician and collaborator.
Double Fantasy and Grammy Award
Released 'Double Fantasy' with Lennon, which won the 1981 Grammy for Album of the Year.
Death of John Lennon
John Lennon was assassinated in New York City, profoundly impacting Ono's life.
Continued artistic career
Continued her career as an influential artist, musician, and activist.
Season of Glass and solo success
Released acclaimed solo album 'Season of Glass' and continued music and art projects.
Strawberry Fields Memorial
Funded and dedicated Strawberry Fields memorial in Central Park on what would have been Lennon's 45th birthday.
Dance chart resurgence
Achieved multiple #1 hits on Billboard Dance/Club chart with remixes such as 'Walking on Thin Ice' and 'Everyman... Everywoman...'.
Imagine Peace Tower
Unveiled the Imagine Peace Tower in Iceland, a global peace art installation dedicated to John Lennon.
Later exhibitions and honors
Held major retrospectives and exhibitions worldwide, received numerous awards for art and activism, and remained active in music and peace advocacy.