Earlier this year I put together a post of Tokyo graffiti from over the years — street scenes that for some reason or other are rarely associated with Japan.
To be fair, there isn’t exactly a huge amount of such artwork to be seen, but at the same time it’s also far from non-existent. Something that was confirmed once again on a recent stay in Osaka. So here then is just some of what I saw in the space of several days.
Sean says
Some very cool shots here. For sure a different look and vibe than we usually see but I love it!
Lee says
Thanks a lot. Yeah, quite different, and this part of Osaka is different in many other ways too. Made for a fascinating stay for sure.
Richard says
If it is done as a mural representing something as in the fourth photo, I find it worthwhile. Scribbling words or names on the wall, a vending machine, etc is destructive and unfortunate, in my opinion.
Lee says
That’s a very fair point, and can’t argue with it at all. This part of Osaka did have way more of that than usual, but then it’s not a usual area in any way whatsoever.
Linda says
I see that you waited for a guy whose scooter AND pants were color-coordinated with that graffiti 🙂
Lee says
Haha, glad you noticed. Always nice when a bit of colour coordination can be added into the mix.
-Evan says
Your timing on the swordsman shot is impeccable, and amusing, as usual.
Lee says
Thanks ever so much. One of those rare and lovely moments when we turned a corner and it was all set up perfectly.
john says
Not diminishing the others, the mural in #4 is so feature rich; the escaping bonsai, the tastefully coordinated trousers, the ‘in whack’ framing and the ‘bottom bokken’!
The happy camel is quite fun too.
That guy eyeing the empty plot seems to summarise much of your work, as did your recent photo of a plot new build complete with aircon and pointy conifers in sharp focus and pastel palette.
Lee says
Yeah, the mural is quite something. Even better with the fella in the frame too. Very happy with how that came out.
And yes, I have a real soft spot for that photo for that very reason. Seemed to encapsulate so much.
scruffy says
Interesting. Over the years I’ve developed an appreciation for good graffiti.
#4 is outstanding. Which came first, the mural or the mold? Looks well planned. Wash off the mold in the general shape of the figure, outline in white. Looks like steam or smoke rising up off his shoulders. Wouldn’t you love to wake up to a surprise like that painted on your wall?
Lee says
Yes, I’m the same, and not seeing loads of it here makes any finds all the more interesting.
That bit of art is quite something, isn’t it? And that mould certainly adds to it. A very nice addition to the neighbourhood for sure.