Kawakami works in the tradition of iron and steel welding. Her sculptures attempt to convey notions of life and its cycles, such as the ever-expanding universe, the dividing of a nucleus through an electron microscope, or the repeated cycles of construction and destruction of cities.

Recent solo shows include: Contemporary Art Institute and STV Entrance Art, Sapporo (Japan); Red Mill Gallery, Vermont, U.S.A. Recent group shows include: Hokkaido, Sapporo (Japan), Korea and Poland. She has also been awarded a fellowship from the Freeman Foundation (USA) and from the City of Ishikari (Japan).

Rie's residency at Location One is supported by the Agency for Cultural Affairs, Japan. Website Feel the Wind, 2006