LOT 77
TAKASHI MURAKAMI
B. Japan, 1962
Blue Flower & Skulls, 2012 (Edition 277/300)
Offset lithograph on smooth wove paper
69 x 53 cm
Published by Kaikai Kiki Co., Ltd , Tokyo
Hand-signed and numbered by the artist
RM 10,000 – 22,000
Takashi Murakami, a Japanese artist and cultural phenomenon, has become synonymous with the vibrant, boundary-pushing world of contemporary art. Blending elements of pop culture, anime, and traditional Japanese art, Murakami’s iconic style embodies a fusion of East and West, high and low, and challenges the very notion of artistic categorisation. Murakami’s art often features bright, playful characters that he refers to as “Superflat,” characterised by their bold colours, intricate details, and exaggerated features. Through these characters, he explores themes of consumerism, mass media, and the tension between art and commerce. With an uncanny ability to navigate the realms of fine art and popular culture, Murakami creates visually stunning pieces that simultaneously captivate and provoke thought. Beyond his visually striking works, Murakami has also made significant contributions to the art world as a curator and entrepreneur. He established the Superflat movement, a term he coined to describe his artistic philosophy and the flattened aesthetics of contemporary Japanese visual culture. Murakami’s influence extends beyond the realm of art, as he has collaborated with renowned fashion brands, musicians, and even created his own brand, Kaikai Kiki, which promotes the works of emerging artists.