The Cleveland Museum of Art is set to open a new exhibit featuring the works of renowned Japanese artist Takashi Murakami. “Stepping on the Tail of a Rainbow” will be on display from May 25 through September 7. Murakami’s art is known for blending contemporary Japanese cultural elements like anime and manga with traditional Japanese art forms.
His unique style captures the dynamic energies of modern Japan. The exhibit also explores historical events and their lasting impacts. It provides commentary on how art can address crises, healing, and escapist fantasies.
Visitors will have the chance to explore themes such as how shared traumatic events can lead to both individual and collective transformation. “Stepping on the Tail of a Rainbow” draws its name from an 82-foot-long painting inspired by the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami. This piece, along with others, reflects Murakami’s continued exploration of Japan’s historical traumas.
Exploring Murakami’s artistic journey
The exhibition features several never-before-seen works and new installations. A notable highlight is a “dream hall” modeled in the traditional Kyoto architectural style.
It includes four new paintings that reimagine traditional animal motifs with a modern twist. Some of the museum’s permanent collection pieces have been digitally reimagined by Murakami. This technique is also showcased in his concurrent exhibition at Gagosian in New York.
Visitors to the exhibition will receive unique, Cleveland-exclusive trading cards. The first 50,000 attendees will receive them free of charge. The Cleveland Museum of Art is hosting related events and lectures to provide deeper insights into Murakami’s work and the themes explored in the exhibit.
Tickets for “Stepping on the Tail of a Rainbow” are now available on the museum’s website. The exhibit is located in the Kelvin and Eleanor Smith Foundation Exhibition Hall and Gallery.
