And Then Black 2005

"And Then Black" (2005) by Takashi Murakami features the artist's signature "Mr. DOB" character, known for its large, expressive eyes and cheerful grin. The iconic figure, rendered in bold colors and playful patterns, embodies the artist's signature style of Superflat, a movement that critiques Japanese mass culture and its influence on contemporary art. The checkered background adds a pop art element to the piece, emphasizing the bold, graphic nature of Murakami's work. This playful yet unsettling image is typical of the artist's work, which explores themes of consumerism, tradition, and the relationship between high and low art.