Takashi Murakami: Hong Kong vs Singapore
I used to be quite ignorant about all-things artsy since I grew up in a rather modest environment.
The first time I noticed Takashi Murakami’s works was in the form of the cheery cherry blossoms printed on LV bags way back in the early 2000s? Back then I was poor AF and had priorities like completing university so of course, they were mere abstract cute things I see in magazines.
Murakami vs Murakami at Tai Kwun, Hong Kong
Fast forward to 2019, I was still quite oblivious to Takashi Murakami’s magic until I happened to be in Hong Kong in July when I was lucky enough to catch his massive showcase Murakami vs Murakami at Tai Kwun (an ex prison turned artsy place I’d recommend all to visit – once the protests calm down!).
It was here that I found out for the first time that beyond the colourful flowers Murakami is so well known for, he also does fashion costumes, zen paintings, anime, sculptures, acrylic paintings, gold leaf paintings, etc. No wonder he’s such a big name in the world of contemporary art!
He also seems to be a very self-deprecating and humourous artist through the blurbs he writes to accompany his pieces or collections, which I enjoyed very much:
From Superflat to Bubblewrap in Singapore
So when I got back to Singapore, I decided to visit the From Superflat to Bubblewrap showcase at the STPI gallery despite being ‘warned’ that it might turn out to be disappointing especially after the epic one I saw in Hong Kong.
LSQ’s verdict
So what’s my verdict?
The Hong Kong exhibition is definitely wayyyy more comprehensive and holistic – it’s not just the size of the exhibition space or art pieces, but Murakami vs Murakami at Tai Kwun truly gives visitors an excellent grasp of the breadth of work Murakami does, and there were way more written blurbs and explanation all round. There was also a very detailed timeline of Murakami’s life and career milestones starting from the year he was born right up till now; you’ll get a good idea of the struggles he went through in his early years before he became successful.
However, the From Superflat to Bubblewrap showcase at the STPI gallery is not without merit because it showcases a well curated collection of Murakami’s famed works and style. And for the SGD $8 entry fee, I feel it is well worth every cent. There isn’t any time limit, so you can take your time to look at his works carefully, and take as many photos you want.
For a first-timer, the STPI exhibition would hopefully be enough to ignite your curiosity and desire to learn more about Murakami and may inspire you to explore visiting his other exhibitions be it the current one in Hong Kong, or at other venues in the future. It is kinda like the perfect appetiser.
The showcase runs till 14 September 2019, you can buy open-dated tickets here: https://stpithecornershop.com/products/day-ticket-takashi-murakami-from-superflat-to-bubblewrap, or at the door.
Before I wipe clean…….
1 last pro tip – if you’re hoping to score some cute Murakami merchandise, the gift store restocks DAILY! So do go when doors open, (9am on Saturdays, and 10am on other days) especially on weekends! <3 Enjoy!