Takashi Murakami is typically known for his manga-esque, cutesy art pieces. At his new exhibition at the Gagosian gallery in New York titled, “Picture of Fate: I Am But A Fisherman Who Angles in the Darkness of his Mind,” Murakami’s work took on a more macabre twist.
His feature work in the exhibition is a large piece that combines several aspects of his superflat style called, “A Picture Of The Blessed Lion Who Stares At Death” which -- though brightly colored -- does contain an array of skulls. Though some of his work is a bit dark, this piece is certainly darker than his usual pieces.
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Dark Art
- Exploring the trend of artists creating dark and macabre art in contrast to their usual style.
- Superflat Style
- Examining the trend of artists incorporating elements of the superflat art movement in their work.
- Contrasting Themes
- Highlighting the trend of artists juxtaposing bright colors with dark and unsettling imagery in their artwork.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Art Galleries
- Identifying the potential for art galleries to curate exhibitions focusing on dark and macabre art to attract audiences.
- Contemporary Art
- Exploring how the contemporary art industry can adapt and embrace the incorporation of contrasting themes in artworks.
- Art Market
- Identifying an opportunity for art dealers and collectors to invest in and promote artworks that combine elements of the superflat style with contrasting themes.