Takashi Murakami in Amsterdam

Meet Mr. DOB

One of Murakami’s most iconic creations Mr. DOB, makes a bold appearance at Moco Museum Amsterdam. First introduced in 1993, Mr. DOB is a mouse-like figure with exaggerated features, giant eyes, and a broad smile. Inspired by characters like Mickey Mouse, Sonic the Hedgehog, and Doraemon, Mr. DOB reflects Japan’s postwar fascination with cute, childlike imagery, known as “kawaii.”

The name “DOB” comes from the Japanese slang phrase “dobojite, dobojite” — meaning “why, why?” This question encapsulates Murakami’s philosophical exploration of identity, consumerism, and the human condition. Mr. DOB’s playful yet unsettling appearance reflects the contradictions of modern culture — where innocence and commercialisation coexist.

At Moco Museum Amsterdam, three versions of Mr. DOB [DOB (Blue), DOB (Red), and DOB (Rainbow)] are displayed together, highlighting Murakami’s ability to reinvent and reinterpret his signature character across different mediums and colour palettes.

(Smiling) Flowers

Murakami’s use of flowers is another key motif in his work. His vibrant floral compositions radiate joy and positivity, but also hint at hidden trauma and sorrow. Untitled (Flowerbird) (2018), displayed at Moco Museum Amsterdam, presents a colorful flower as the face to Drake’s owl logo for his fashion brand, OVO.

While the smiling flowers seem cheerful at first glance, their glistening eyes suggest deeper introspection and collective trauma. Murakami often references the resilience of the Japanese people following natural disasters like earthquakes and tsunamis. The flowers become symbols of both fragility and renewal, mirroring the emotional complexity beneath the surface of his work.

This duality reflects Murakami’s ability to balance commercial appeal with profound emotional depth. His art invites viewers to consider the intersection of beauty and pain in contemporary life.

Fashioning Culture

Murakami’s ability to blend art with pop culture has made him a dominant figure in both creative and commercial spheres. His collaborations with luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Supreme have introduced his work to a broader audience, while his partnerships with music icons like Kanye West and Billie Eilish have further elevated his cultural influence.

The piece Times (2018), made in collaboration with Off-White’s late creative director Virgil Abloh at Moco Museum Amsterdam exemplifies this fusion of art and fashion. The work combines Murakami’s playful Superflat aesthetic with Off-White’s distinct logo. The platinum leaf and acrylic composition reflects both Murakami’s meticulous craftsmanship and his embrace of commercial culture.

The Legacy of Superflat

Murakami’s work at Moco Museum Amsterdam clearly shows his impact on the world of contemporary art. The unique combination of anime and manga with the philosophical weight of fine art, Murakami challenges traditional hierarchies and redefines the boundaries of creative expression. His Superflat aesthetic continues to influence a new generation of artists, designers, and cultural innovators.

Takashi Murakami’s art and the signature characters he imagines, reflects the contradictions of modern life, where innocence and trauma, beauty and commercialisation, coexist. Through his work, Murakami asks viewers to confront these contradictions and discover meaning beneath the surface.