Get ready, art lovers and budding artists – the Art Gallery of New South Wales is set to host a major retrospective of Takashi Murakami, the renowned Japanese contemporary artist who founded the 'Superflat' movement.
Developed in close collaboration with the artist, the show brings together more than 150 works spanning more than 30 years – from his boundary-pushing pieces of the 1990s to new creations making their global debut. The exhibition will be an immersive mix of paintings, sculptures, video and large-scale installations, all unfolding across the Art Gallery’s striking Naala Badu building.
So, what exactly is the ‘Superflat’ movement? It’s a bold collision of fine art, pop culture and commercial imagery that draws on everything from anime and manga to traditional Japanese painting. It breaks down the boundaries between high art and pop culture with its bold, flat visuals and critiques the “flatness” of consumer culture. Murakami’s work is instantly recognisable: think smiling flowers, vibrant colours and characters that are equal parts playful and unsettling.
Says Art Gallery of New South Wales director Maud Page, "Takashi Murakami’s singular vision has transformed how we understand contemporary visual culture, and this will be a rare opportunity to step directly inside his joyful creative universe to experience the full spectrum of his phenomenal work."
Often compared to Andy Warhol, Murakami has shaped global visual art culture through high-profile collaborations with the likes of Issey Miyake, Louis Vuitton, Pharrell Williams, Billie Eilish, and Dom Perignon.
This Sydney-exclusive showcase, part of the Sydney International Art Series, offers a rare chance to experience the world of Takashi Murakami at the Art Gallery of New South Wales from December 5, 2026 to July 18 2027. Tickets go on sale soon – sign up here.
Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news and things to do, straight to your inbox.
