10 interesting facts about Takashi Murakami – the “father” of the “smiling face” flower

The image of a colorful flower “smiling face” is probably too famous and popular among the Sneakerheads community. There was a time when people were talking about it everywhere and Japanese artist Takashi Murakami. So now let EACHSHOES learn more about interesting information about the “father” of this “cult” character.

1. “The ancestor” of “super flat” art

The term “superflat” (Superflat) was first introduced by Takashi Murakami at his exhibition in 2001. This type of art has its roots in traditional Japanese painting. In addition, he is recognized by the contemporary art world as a man who blurs the boundary between low art and high art.

2. The journey of finding “destiny”

As you may not know, the image of a sweet candy-colored flower was first appeared in Takashi Murakami’s Tokyo National University of Fine Arts entrance exam. After that, he spent more than 9 years teaching at a middle school and what he teaches the most is drawing flowers. In the end, it was those colorful colorful flowers that brought his name to more people, and more fields. Perhaps, Takashi Murakami’s fate is flowers, right?

3. “Laughing Flowers” is not the first landmark work

Murakami’s signature work is MR. Dob with the image of a round head with two ears bearing the letters D and B. When looking at, you will immediately see a cultural mix from big Japanese-style eyes and American-style Mickey ears.

4. Louis Vuitton x Murakami

The patterned LV bag was designed by Murakami

In 2003, the famous fashion designer Marc Jacobs invited Murakami to join the designer Louis Vuitton handbag design. The contract lasts 13 years. By integrating the color of sweet candy and round eyes – characteristic of Murakami, the Louis Vuitton collection has created a great reputation in the fashion world.

5. Kanye West and Murakami are you?

Has anyone known Kanye West is a fan of Murakmi? In 2007, Kanye West invited his “idol” to collaborate on drawing art for the album cover “Granduation”. In order to maintain a “loving” friendship, most recently, Takashi Murakami has drawn a cover art for Kanye’s very successful “Kids See Ghosts” album.

6. “It Girl” – Pharrell William

Prepare to be surprised again! The image producer of the song “It Girl” is none other than Marakami. You don’t read it wrong, it’s Pharrell William’s cult song that has more than 9 million views on Youtube! “Terrible” is not it?

A scene in the MV It Girl – Farrell William

7. Takashi Marakami also “encroached on” cinema.

Takashi Murakami’s first film was released in 2013. “Jellyfish’s eyes” is a fantasy film that hits the tsunami and nuclear disaster issues in Japan through childhood stories.

8. The masterpiece “million dollars” My Lonesome Cow Boy (1998)

My Lonesome Cow Boy (1988)

In May 2008, Murakami has become one of the most expensive artists in the world. His sculpture, My Lonesome Cow Boy, sold for over $ 15 million at Christie’s auction.

9. Extremely supportive of young artists

Young artists are working at Kaikai Kiki Co. Ltd

In 2001, Murakami founded an art management agency called Kaikai Kiki Co. Ltd. The main goal of the company is to produce and promote works of art from young artists. Thanks to that, young people have more opportunities to approach people who enjoy art more easily than ever.

10. Kaikai Kiki

Kaikai Kiki means “weird but elegant”. This collection is a tribute to a 16th century Japanese artist. These two silly-looking characters were created to protect the artist’s morale. At the same time, it is also the official mascot of Takashi Murakami’s company.

Is there anything else interesting about this talented artist Takashi Murakami? Please share more for EACHSHOES with offline!

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