Takashi Murakami: The Meaning of the Nonsense of the Meaning

Rating:
Summary: I love this book...
Review: I've seen some of Murakami's works in New York and at the Grand Central Station, and I must say that they're a wonderful twist on your typical 20th century pop art. A great bio on his life and works. I love DOB and Hiropon! God Bless the Hiropon Factory!

Rating:
Summary: Surreal Shiny Pop Tart Explosion
Review: TMNM presents a recent exhibition of the work of Takashi Murakami, a rising star in the Japanese art world. His work uses a wide range of media, including huge latex balloons, hypersexual life size sculptures and even merchandise produced in his Warhol-like Factory. His artistic style combines elements of surrealism, vibrant pop, and the irrepressible energy of manga (comic books and films characterized most recognizably by the large eyed women, giant robots, and high levels of detail provided in exchange for halting, sequential rather than fluid movement.) TMNM provides a good introduction for americans catching their first glimpse at this formidable talent. The book consists of two halves, the first features essays by Amanda Cruz, Midori Matsui, and Dana Friis-Hansen which attempt to interpret if not explain Murakami's works. While all were very thorough, each relied heavily on obuse art-speak, fine for those with some experience in the field but it may prove too much at times for casual appreciators of the arts. The second half features a series of high quality full color prints of the artist's work. The photographer does an amiable job of presenting the three dimensional installations, providing detail shots where neccesary, however at least one plate (DOB in the Strange Forest) is too dingy in some places and while in others the lights bouncing off the sculpture's surface further obscure fine detail. The book overall is quite good, and an excellent addition to the collection of anyone who appreciates pop art or anime.