"TAKASHI MURAKAMI “STEPPING ON THE TAIL OF A RAINBOW”
CLEAVLAND MUSEUM OF ART
The Cleveland Museum of Art presents an extraordinary new exhibition, Takashi Murakami: Stepping on the Tail of a Rainbow. Known for his ability to merge traditional Japanese art forms with contemporary cultural elements such as anime, manga, and kawaii aesthetics, Takashi Murakami’s work provides a profound exploration of trauma, resilience, and healing through art.
About the Exhibition
This exhibition offers a deep dive into Murakami’s work, which responds to significant historical events, including:
The atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945.
The Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami of 2011, which also caused the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster.
The global COVID-19 pandemic that began in 2019.
Murakami’s art addresses how societies process trauma and the transformative potential of creative expression. Through vivid and intricate artworks, he explores themes of crisis, healing, outrage, and escapist fantasy, blending modern cultural obsessions like gaming, street fashion, and the metaverse with traditional Japanese art and mythology.
The Cleveland Museum of Art builds on the exhibition’s original presentation at The Broad in Los Angeles, expanding its scope with new pieces and a deeper connection to Cleveland’s extensive Japanese art collection.
A Stunning Centerpiece: The Yumedono Recreation
A highlight of the exhibition is Murakami’s re-creation of the Yumedono (Dream Hall), a sacred space from Nara’s Horyuji Temple complex. This structure, originally believed to be the home of Shōtoku Taishi—a significant figure in Japanese religious and cultural history—has been meticulously recreated in the museum’s atrium.
The Yumedono houses four new paintings by Murakami—Blue Dragon, Vermillion Bird, White Tiger, and Black Tortoise (2024). These works explore Kyoto’s cultural traditions and mythology while paying homage to Shōtoku’s legacy of healing and spiritual guidance. This juxtaposition of Kyoto’s influence within a Nara-inspired space reflects Murakami’s exploration of Japanese cultural hybridity and the evolving relationship between religion, mythology, and political power.
Exploring Cultural and Historical Themes
Murakami’s art serves as a bridge between past and present, using the vibrancy of contemporary culture as an entry point to discuss profound historical events and their enduring effects. Through this lens, visitors can reflect on how art acts as a collective response to crisis.
The exhibition also highlights the role of Kyoto as a cultural and spiritual center in Japan. Emperor Kanmu’s decision to relocate the imperial capital to Kyoto in the 8th century was deeply intertwined with Shōtoku Taishi’s religious and cultural significance. Murakami’s placement of Kyoto-inspired works in a Nara-themed space underscores the interconnectedness of Japan’s cultural traditions.
A Unique Experience at the Cleveland Museum of Art
This expanded presentation offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience Murakami’s interpretation of history, mythology, and contemporary culture. The museum’s unparalleled collection of Japanese art adds an additional layer of depth to the exhibition, enhancing the exploration of its themes.
Why This Exhibition Matters
Murakami’s work is not just art; it is a meditation on the power of creativity to address collective trauma, provide healing, and inspire hope. By weaving together ancient traditions and modern cultural elements, he challenges audiences to consider the ways art can act as a unifying force, offering both catharsis and escapism.
Plan Your Visit
Takashi Murakami: Stepping on the Tail of a Rainbow is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the intersection of tradition and innovation through one of the most renowned contemporary artists of our time. Visit the Cleveland Museum of Art to engage with this groundbreaking exhibition and explore how art continues to shape and reflect our world.