Creator : Takashi Murakami
Title: Untitled
Work Type: Paintings
Date: 2000
Location: Exhibited at Marianne Boesky Gallery, Fall 2000
Material: acrylic on canvas mounted on wood
Measurements: 16″ x 16″
Image URL: https://library.artstor.org/#/asset/LARRY_QUALLS_1039762566
This untitled painting by Takashi Murakami features several small mushroom figures and his famous colored flowers. As with many of his other works, the mushrooms are covered with bright, round eyes. These eyes in particular all appear wide-eyed and curious as if they were observing not just their surroundings but the viewer as well. The style of these eyes is often seen in modern, pop art like that of Murakami’s as well as both Japanese and western cartoons or manga. Although they have been used in American art such as Disney for decades, they are often referred to as “Anime eyes” and play a huge role in Japanese culture. From the direction of the eyes, it would appear as if the mushrooms are observing the flowers whom with they share the space. The flowers, however, appear totally oblivious and stare directly at the viewer with their sharp, black eyes. Perhaps the mushrooms are envious of the fame those flowers receive as they have become synonymous with the Murakami brand. As a result of their simple design, scalability, and cheerful image, Murakami’s flowers have become a large part of pop culture around the globe and even making their way into fashion and luxury. For reasons like this, Murakami has compared himself to artists such as Katsushika Hokusai who focused his art in the commercial realm but has since become regarded as an iconic figure in Japanese art.
Jason Houle – USCGA – jhoule4.98@gmail.com
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