ARTISTIC LANGUAGE OF MASS CULTURE AS ILLUSTRATED BY TAKASHI MURAKAMI (ON MATERIALS FROM "UNDER THE RADIATION FALLS" EXHIBIT, 2017–2018, MOSCOW)

Olga Yazovskaya

doi:10.18769/ijasos.455682

Abstract

In this paper I delve into the artistic language of Japanese mass culture, as represented by Japanese contemporary artist working in the field of neo pop-art, Takashi Murakami. General traits characterizing the kawaii aesthetic, influenced in large part by the otaku subculture, are defined in the research. Main unique features of kawaii as an art style based on manga stylistic are defined; their traces in Takashi Murakami art are scrutinized. The artist's works themselves are to undergo an analysis based on the artist's personal theory of superflatness. A thesis about strong ties between the artistic language of contemporary art and mass culture, their mutual influences is proved true.

Highlights

Since late XX century, Japanese mass culture becomes more and more globally popular with every year
In this paper I delve into the artistic language of Japanese mass culture, as represented by Japanese contemporary artist working in the field of neo pop-art, Takashi Murakami
Main unique features of kawaii as an art style based on manga stylistic are defined; their traces in Takashi Murakami art are scrutinized

Summary

INTRODUCTION

Since late XX century, Japanese mass culture becomes more and more globally popular with every year. Peculiarity of art style and a wide variety of genres allowed it to include itself into the global culture. New artistic formulas had first been conceived in traditional Japanese culture, and later were re-imagined in mass culture, becoming an inspiration for contemporary artists like Takashi Murakami

METHODOLOGY

AESTHETICS OF KAWAII AS A TOTALITY OF CULTURE

Takashi Murakami

CONCLUSIONS