Yoskay Yamamoto and kimo-kawaii
Yoskay Yamamoto takes icons from mythical, traditional culture of Japan, where he was born and raised, and pop culture from his 'new' home - the United States and nostalgically combines and blends them in his works.
Asian heritage + Urban Pop Art
' In the beginning, I was having fun, just taking over an iconic character and modifying it with my own style. I enjoy the oddness of these modified sculptures; there is something quite disturbing about them in a cute way. Then I started to spend more time on adding more comedic value into the titles and the sculptures. I had an old vinyl devil figure that I modified and added a carved spork for him to hold. And I titled the piece ' Trying to Be More Practical''
Yoskay Yamamoto's works represent popular movement in Japan called 'kimo-kawaii' which is translated to 'gross-cute'. Artist create pieces that blend cuteness of Hello Kitty and Pikachu and the weirdness and characteristic craziness of Japanese culture.
The repetive idea of strong visual contrasts has been selling well for years now all over the globe, it is time for Japan!