Illustrator Ellen Weinstein and MoMA curator Sarah Suzuki have collaborated with famous Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama to create 'Yayoi Kusama: To Infinity and Beyond,' a children's book about the octogenarian's life story. The whimsically illustrated book follows Kusama's journey from childhood to international fame.
Kusama grew up in Matsumoto, Japan, on her family's plant and vegetable nurseries. She was expected to work in a traditional role, but she was always compelled to drawing and painting. She eventually went to art school, but she experienced a similarly stifling attitude from her professors. Indefatigable, she took a chance and moved to New York, where she ultimately gained fame for her polka dot paintings and massive, plush sculptures of chairs, sofas, and boats.
The book teaches kids to persevere and to push the boundaries of society's norms.
Biographical Children's Books
'Yayoi Kusama: To Infinity and Beyond!' Depicts the Japanese Artist
Trend Themes
1. Biographical Children's Books - Creating biographical children's books about famous figures from different industries and cultures can be a trend in the publishing industry.
2. Diversity and Inclusion in Children's Literature - Highlighting famous figures from different cultures and backgrounds in children's literature can be a trend in the publishing industry promoting diversity and inclusion.
3. Art Education for Children - Developing children's art education programs can be a trend in the education industry that promotes creativity and innovation among children.
Industry Implications
1. Publishing - Publishing companies can create more biographical children's books to meet the growing demand from parents and educators who seek to educate future generations on notable figures' contributions to different industries.
2. Education - Educational institutions can include art education in their curriculums to promote creativity and innovation among children and spark an interest in the arts from an early age.
3. Art and Culture - Art and culture organizations can collaborate with educators and publishers to develop educational materials that promote the arts to children and their families to foster interest and creativity.