Japanese, b. 1959

Yoshitomo Nara (born 1959) is a prominent Japanese artist known for his captivating paintings and sculptures that feature children as central figures. Born in Hirosaki, Japan, Nara's artistic journey began influenced by both Western music, discovered through American Forces Radio, and traditional Japanese doga illustrations.

After completing his studies in Japan, Nara ventured to Germany in 1988 to further hone his craft at the Kunstakademie Düsseldorf. There, he embraced Neo-Expressionism and the rebellious energy of punk rock, themes that would later infuse his work.

Nara's signature style features large-eyed, often rebellious-looking children against stark backgrounds. These enigmatic figures, sometimes wielding guitars or bathed in an air of defiance, capture a complex range of emotions – vulnerability, anger, and independence.

Nara draws inspiration from various sources, including Shinto spiritual teachings, childhood memories of loneliness, and the angst of adolescence. His work invites viewers to connect with these universal emotions and contemplate the complexities of youth.

The market reflects this popularity. According to Artprice.com, Nara's average annual return is a staggering 14%, with over 88% of his works increasing in value. Paintings remain his top-selling category, with "Knife Behind Back" achieving a record-breaking $24.9 million in 2019.

Heart on his sleeve: Artist Yoshitomo Nara in a re-creation of his studio at his current exhibition. | SATOKO KAWASAKI