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Sebastian Masuda. | Photo courtesy of Japan House LA
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Japan House Los Angeles has partnered with multi-disciplinary artist and “King of Kawaii” Sebastian Masuda for its newest exhibition “Yes, KAWAII is Art -EXPRESS YOURSELF-,” opening May 2. The term kawaii literally translates to “cute” or “adorable,” but Japanese kawaii culture has evolved into a global phenomenon encompassing fashion, art, technology, and even social behavior.
The colorful exhibition will be on display through Nov. 3 and is the first to include multiple Masuda artworks unravelling kawaii concepts while introducing his personal story of sharing kawaii with the world. Highlights include Masuda’s “Kawaii Timeline” (created in collaboration with Kyoto University of the Arts) depicting kawaii culture’s historical roots from post-war media and shōjo manga (comic books for girls) to the 1990s where it evolved into a global phenomenon rooted in Tokyo’s Harajuku district. An immersive room installation, “Colorful Rebellion -Seventh Nightmare-” envelops guests in the colors and aesthetic of kawaii. Multiple pieces foster discovery and engagement, such as “Digital Tribe World Map” and “Sense Share Bear” (an interactive VR work) both inspired by the desire for the global kawaii network to connect with one another during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It is my hope that by engaging with Japan’s pop culture and the philosophy of kawaii, visitors will be encouraged to reflect on what’s unique about themselves and contemplate how to navigate the social and personal challenges of the future. I would be delighted if exploring these diverse perspectives could become a hint for living into tomorrow,” said Masuda.
According to Masuda, kawaii is “a personal microcosmos of beloved things, undisturbed by anyone else.” This exhibition invites the audience into an adventure of self-expression, unlocking the infinite potential held within each individual.
Admission to the exhibition is free. Walk-ins are welcome as space allows and the gallery is open daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Monday through Friday) and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Saturday to Sunday).
