It might seem easy to feel familiar with Takashi Murakami’s art, given its pervasive presence over the last twenty years, particularly following his initial collaborations with luxury brand Louis Vuitton in 2003. Since that time, the innovative Japanese artist has made his mark across the breadth of contemporary culture, from designing the iconic cover for Kanye West’s 2007 album “Graduation” to reimagining the classic Vans slip-ons.

However, few have delved deeper than the occasional sensational headlines, such as the remarkable auction of his early sculpture “My Lonesome Cowboy” (1998)—depicting an anime figure in a provocative pose—for an astonishing $15.1 million at Sotheby’s in 2008. Beyond the sensationalism, Murakami’s work is deeply rooted in his “Superflat” concept, which he introduced in 2001. This theory explores the postwar Japanese cultural tendency to blend and flatten distinctions between high and low culture, and between Eastern and Western influences. Additionally, his company Kaikai Kiki, originally established to support his own projects in a nod to Andy Warhol’s Factory, has expanded to assist emerging artists, organize exhibitions, and even host an art fair.

Murakami’s approach to art challenges traditional norms and has established a groundbreaking model of creativity. This is vividly showcased in his mid-career retrospective at the Kyoto City Kyocera Museum of Art, available until September 1. The exhibition highlights the diverse aspects of Murakami’s work and the complex interplay of historical, political, and social factors that have influenced his artistic journey.