The KYOCERA Museum of Art in Kyoto City which celebrated its 90th anniversary in 2023, is pleased to present Takashi Murakami Mononoke Kyoto, a large-scale solo exhibition of works by leading contemporary artist Takashi Murakami (b. 1962–).
Superflat, the art and cultural theory that Murakami proposed in 2000, has had an indelible impact on the contemporary art scene over the years. The theory explored the essential meaning of art, not only linking traditional Japanese pictorial expression with pop culture like anime, manga, and video games, but also evaluated Japanese sensibilities and society before and after World War II, along with capitalist economics, politics, and religion, all on a flattened plane. With a distinctively Japanese perspective, Murakami’s career has continually challenged and stimulated the international art scene which often takes Western values as its de facto norm.
During the Edo period (1603 – 1868), artists thrived in Kyoto, and the legacy of fine arts, performing arts, festivals, and traditional events continues until this day. Now, Murakami’s first large-scale solo exhibition in Japan in eight years takes place in the city that has fascinated the artist since the beginning of his career. Divided into multiple sections, the exhibition presents about 170 works, the majority of which are new creations or pieces never previously exhibited in Japan. This includes Rakuchū-Rakugai-zu Byōbu: Iwasa Matabei RIP; a recent series of works based on the theme of the four deities that symbolize the four cardinal directions; along with other representative art pieces.
Never ceasing to move forward, the showcase of the new world created by Takashi Murakmi opened in Kyoto, Japan on February 3, 2024 and is on view until September 1, 2024.
February 3, 2024 and is on view until September 1, 2024. During the opening period, the first 50,000 visitors will receive a special gift of collectible trading cards (Guests are advised to check the release schedule. Distribution is on a first-come, first-served basis.)