Takashi Murakami is reimagining art history with his upcoming exhibition, JAPONISME → Cognitive Revolution: Learning from Hiroshige. The show will run from May 8 to July 12 at Gagosian’s West 21st Street gallery in New York.
The exhibition will showcase 121 new and recent works. These pieces respond to the deep influence of Japan’s ukiyo-e tradition, with a strong focus on Utagawa Hiroshige’s 100 Famous Views of Edo. Murakami draws from Hiroshige’s storytelling style, visual techniques, and use of colour. He also interprets the works of European Impressionists and Post-Impressionists who once admired Japanese art. By doing this, Murakami closes the loop on cultural exchange and adds his own voice to this shared visual language.
The display builds on themes seen in Murakami’s recent London show, Japanese Art History à la Takashi Murakami. One central theme is the idea of “the copy.” Murakami explains this as a form of “backcrossing”—where artists mix two styles, then reintroduce elements from one to shape future work. He treats this process as a method of evolution in art.
Several new paintings in the exhibition also trace links between Japanese design and global fashion. One series connects Louis Vuitton’s iconic logo and checkerboard patterns to traditional Japanese symbols like the kamon (family crest) and the Ichimatsu checkerboard. Through this, Murakami continues his exploration of originality, influence, and global design conversations.
Visitors can explore these ideas at:
Gagosian West 21st Street
522 W 21st St,
New York, NY 10011
This exhibition promises a colourful journey through time, culture, and artistic reinvention.