- “yoshikitty” is First Sanrio Character Based on Real Person, Modeled After JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles Advisor and International Music Icon
U.S. Debut of Sanrio Yoshikitty at JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles - JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles and international music icon YOSHIKI jointly present “yoshikitty” dolls during the “Yes, KAWAII is Art -EXPRESS YOURSELF-” exhibition currently open in Hollywood. The limited-time display from May 16 to August 31, 2024, marks the U.S. debut of the first Sanrio character to be modeled after a real person – YOSHIKI.
Pingintau.id,- LOS ANGELES, May 15, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles and international music icon YOSHIKI jointly present “yoshikitty” dolls during the “Yes, KAWAII is Art -EXPRESS YOURSELF-” exhibition currently open in Hollywood. The limited-time display from May 16 to August 31, 2024, marks the U.S. debut of the first Sanrio character to be modeled after a real person – YOSHIKI.
YOSHIKI, who recently became the first Japanese artist to receive the globally recognized hand and footprints at the TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, was appointed an official advisor to JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles in 2023 by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan and has been connected to the cultural project since performing at the grand opening in 2018.
JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles invited YOSHIKI to display his personal “yoshikitty” dolls as his global achievements embody the exhibition’s concept, where “King of Kawaii” Sebastian Masuda highlights the evolution of Japanese kawaii culture into a global phenomenon encompassing fashion, art, technology, and even social behavior. The appearance of “yoshikitty” is accompanied by special video commentary by Hello Kitty designer, Yuko Yamaguchi.
The rare dolls, dressed in outfits inspired by YOSHIKI’s classic stage performances, have never officially been presented before in the U.S. The unique character is currently competing in the global Sanrio Character Ranking for the 10th consecutive year. In regional voting, “yoshikitty” has been ranked #1 in Brazil, China, France, Germany, and Thailand.
“YOSHIKI continues to serve as a bridge between Japan and the world with this latest collaboration,” said Yuko Kaifu, president, JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles. “We’re delighted to have ‘yoshikitty’ make a rare appearance at our current exhibition, which brings together Sebastian Masuda’s multiple artworks while introducing his personal story of sharing kawaii with the world. The multimedia presentation gives a deep dive look at the origins of the colorful kawaii style, beyond its perception as a fashion look or trend.”[***]
