Sebastian Masuda has helped
bring “Kawaii” art to Japan House
Los Angeles. (photo by GION)

Japan House Los Angeles will host the exhibition “Yes, KAWAII is Art: EXPRESS YOURSELF’ in partnership with renowned multidisciplinary artist and “King of Kawaii” Sebastian Masuda. The term “kawaii” literally translates to “cute” or “adorable,” but Japanese kawaii culture has evolved into a global phenomenon encompassing fashion, art, technology and even social behavior. The colorful exhibition will be on display through Nov. 3 and is the first to include multiple Masuda artworks unravelling kawaii concepts while introducing his personal story of sharing kawaii with the world.

Highlights of the exhibition include Masuda’s “Kawaii Timeline” (created in collaboration with Kyoto University of the Arts) depicting kawaii culture’s historical roots from post-war media and shōjo manga (comic books for girls) to the 1990s where it evolved into a global phenomenon rooted in Tokyo’s Harajuku district. An intimate, immersive room installation, “Colorful Rebellion – Seventh Nightmare” envelops guests in the colors and aesthetic of kawaii. Multiple pieces foster discovery and engagement, such as “Digital Tribe World Map” and “Sense Share Bear” (an interactive VR work) both inspired by the desire for the global kawaii network to connect with one another during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It is my hope that by engaging with Japan’s pop culture and the philosophy of kawaii, visitors will be encouraged to reflect on what’s unique about themselves and contemplate how to navigate the social and personal challenges of the future. I would be delighted if exploring these diverse perspectives could become a hint for living into tomorrow,” Masuda said.

“We’re excited to partner with celebrated artist Sebastian Masuda and showcase artwork that offers visitors a deep dive on the origins of kawaii culture, the significance of the kawaii movement, and the role it has played in fostering a sense of joy and a tool for self expression,” Japan House president Yuko Kaifu said.

According to Masuda, kawaii is “a personal microcosmos of beloved things, undisturbed by anyone else.” The exhibition vividly reflects these words, inviting the audience into an adventure of self-expression, unlocking the infinite potential held within each individual.

The exhibit is presented by Japan House Los Angeles, with curatorial supervision by Sebastian Masuda Studio and Six Percent Inc., and support from ASOBISYSTEM Co., Ltd.

Admission to the exhibition is free. Walk-ins are welcome as space allows and the gallery is open daily from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. MondayFriday and until 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The exhibition will also include related programs throughout the duration. For information, visit japanhousela.com /exhibitions/yes-kawaii-is-artexpress-yourself-sebastian-masuda. Japan House Los Angeles is located at 6801 Hollywood Blvd.