Creator: Takashi Murakami
Title: Mushroom Bomb
Work Type: Paintings
Date: 2001
Location: Exhibited at Marianne Boesky Gallery, Spring2001
Material: acrylic on canvas mounted on wood
Measurements: 180 cm x 180 cm
Image URL: https://library.artstor.org/#/asset/LARRY_QUALLS_1039627146
Like many of Murakami’s paintings in our exhibit, The Mushroom Bomb features bright colors, a simple background, and clean lines. Unlike the rest of his works that we selected; however, this one has a very different tone. A dark mushroom cloud rises up from the bottom of the painting as it forms the shape of a skull on its vivid red background. The events of World War 2 and their vast impact on Japanese art and culture is a powerful subject that even Murakami displays in his work. Unlike the other pieces in the exhibit with a simple, gray background, the piercing red expresses the incredible pain of Japan caused by both atomic bombings. At nearly 6 feet tall, the painting hung near eye level would cause the top of the mushroom cloud to rise above the viewer’s head. This makes it appear as though you are standing on the ground as darkness spreads across the sky, feeling the true vastness and helplessness of witnessing the explosion. This sense of despair is deepened by the contrast of the black cloud on the bright background, the immense sadness to follow as Japan is engulfed by this black cloud. In the center of each eye resides Murakami’s trademark flowers which serve as both a signature and focal point.
Jason Houle – USCGA – jhoule4.98@gmail.com
