Yoshitomo Nara is a Japanese artist known for his distinct style and “big-headed” artworks.
What is Nara’s style? It’s difficult to say, but we know he has a distinct set of inspirations – manga, Western and Japanese pop culture, and the innocence of youth in the children he paints.
However, each of Nara’s painted children hides a deeper sense of emotional complexity. The subtleties in their expression, demeanor, and intentions are left for the viewer to interpret. So, while they may look cute or creepy, there is so much more beyond their mask! They might not even be as innocent as they seem.
Darlene, a Lyceum contributor, states about Nara’s art: “I think it’s cute. That’s a valid enough reason to like art, no?”
Nara first emerged at the height of Japanese pop art in the 1990s. Anime and manga were beginning to reach worldwide popularity, exposing his works to Western audiences. Since then, Nara has had nearly 40 solo exhibitions around the world – with art enjoyers drawn to his “kawaii” depictions, dark humor, emotional resonance, and use of pop culture.
Discussion Questions
- Without reading any descriptions, look at this image of one of Yoshitomo Nara’s works. Answer the following question:
How would you describe the girl in this image?
Click here once you have answered the question!
This image is Yoshitomo Nara’s Knife Behind Back (2000). Go to the selected works list and read the description of the work. How does this compare to your initial description?
2. How does Yoshitomo Nara’s style draw from different inspirations? What inspirations are these?
THE LYCEUM 
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