Dorothy R. Santos

This post is long overdue. Months ago, I was reading through various art blogs and websites looking for interesting developments in the art world. One of my resources for art news is ArtInfo, having learned about Takashi Murakami’s current work, I saved a draft post and ONLY now just getting back to it (I originally wrote this back in late January of this year!). I still can’t believe it’s half way through April! What the heck? In any case, he is working on a Godzilla-like movie titled Jellyfish Eyes scheduled for release later on this year. Now, if you’re not too familiar with Murakami’s work, he is the artist responsible for Kanye West’s Graduation album cover.

Many Louis Vuitton fans may also remember a line of bags, accessories, and even a New York 5th Avenue store covered in Murakami’s work.

Last year, I read Seven Days in the Art World by Sarah Thornton. Each chapter looks at an important day in the art world (e.g., The Auction, The Crit, etc.). For The Studio Visit, Thornton met with Murakami and some of his staff. One thing that intrigues me is the collaborative effort it takes to manufacture the grandiose pieces. I try to take notice of what makes a particular artist successful and one of the common threads I see (especially across new media artists) is the ability to work with a cross-section of people. Now, I’m not the biggest fan of Murakami’s work but it’s difficult to deny his creative process and prolific production. His work is certainly reflective of human consumption and excess. From album covers (i.e., Kanye West) to the Palace of Versailles, his work is probably the most visually consumed. Reminiscent of Andy Warhol’s art factory, Murakami is an astute artist and business person. It only makes sense that he come out with a movie, right? Right! Quite honestly, I’m really intrigued and will be on the look out later this year.

Takashi Murakami Talks about his Upcoming Monster Movie from Tom Chen on Vimeo.