Authors
1
Department of Illustration, Faculty of Visual Arts, Iran University of Art, Tehran
2
Instructor of visual Communication Department, Faculty of Visual Arts, Iran University of Art, Tehran, Iran
10.22111/jart.2025.50324.1068
Abstract
Japanese mythology, encompassing gods, heroes, and mythical creatures, has always been an integral part of the country’s culture and art. Rooted in Shinto and Buddhist traditions, these myths have historically conveyed social, moral, and cultural concepts in diverse ways. In the modern era, Japanese artists have drawn inspiration from these mythological elements to create artworks that explore cultural identity, societal values, and even the impacts of globalization.
This study, employing a descriptive-analytical approach and utilizing library resources alongside the analysis of artworks, investigates how symbols, stories, and mythological characters are reinterpreted in contemporary Japanese illustration. The selected examples feature works by prominent artists such as Yoshitaka Amano, Takashi Murakami, Takeshi Obata, Takato Yamamoto, Yuko Shimizu, Taro Okamoto, Masakazu Katsura, and Takako Yamaguchi. These artists use modern techniques and innovative styles to reimagine mythological characters and narratives in fresh and unique ways, bridging traditional themes with contemporary artistic expression.
The results demonstrate that Japanese mythology not only serves to preserve cultural identity but also inspires the creation of distinctive modern works. This fusion of tradition and modernity contributes to the formation of a dynamic identity in Japanese visual arts and facilitates the reimagining of cultural values through the lens of contemporary art.
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