Takashi Murakami

What do Kanye West, Louis Vuitton, and Pharell Williams all have in common? They’ve all collaborated with Japanese visual artist Takashi Murakami. You might recognize his art from the cover of Kanye West’s 2007 album, “Graduation”.

Murakami’s art is influenced by traditional Japanese art, pop culture characters, and cartoons.  He merges commercial designs and fine art, creating pieces that fit perfectly on both gallery walls and t-shirts. While his art often resembled pop art seen in the West, they often depict creatures and people from Japanese mythology. He uses unique imagery and style that he calls “superflat” to portray traditional ideas and figures.

Murakami often collaborates with other creatives, in fashion, music, and occasionally animation. He has worked with big name fashion brands such as Louis Vuitton and Supreme, as well as smaller local brands.

Collaboration is an integral part of Murakami’s studio practice as well. He employs young up-and-coming artists as apprentices in his art studio, where they help him construct his colossal pieces and learn about art techniques and concepts. The apprentices are included in every step of the creative process, from the initial sketches to the final piece, where they contribute to the ideas and compositions. Although the final design is up to Murakami, the apprentices’ input always influences the art. Murakami searches for artists to work with who are easy to collaborate with and motivated to work. He describes his studio as a place where people value creativity and efficiency, and everyone works together towards common goals, while still encouraging individual creativity and expression.