Due to its very nature, urban art isn’t destined to last. Demolition, wilful damage or simply time all too often eradicate what once entertained. A few of my favourite pieces in Tokyo were this tiny Audrey Hepburn stencil, and these kimono and seppuku inspired works. All of which are now sadly long gone.
That said, the odd one or two do manage to survive. Astro Boy continues to blast off in Shibuya, and this huge, Hello Kitty-related street painting remains intact to resolutely stare back.
Harry says
I really like this a lot. Very cool! 🙂
Lee says
It’s a very striking piece of art eh? Turning the corner and seeing it for the first time in particular is really special.
YTSL says
Do you think the artist is Japanese? The woman has rather Western features.
Lee says
Nah, it’s by a Norwegian artist called Dolk. There have been a few works of art by him in Tokyo, but this is the only I know of that still exists.
YTSL says
Aaah, okay. BTW, I’ve found Tokyo to be among the Japanese cities where Hello Kitty items are least visible. Kitty Chan seems more popular in other parts of the country, including Tama Center… 😉
Lee says
Yes, very popular in Tama Center with Puroland there!
cdilla says
I love street art and it’s always a good day when I see a good example in life or online. You have got great light and shadow on this photograph. Almost lends itself to a B&W version, but the red hat does provide a fine centrepoint.
Invader is one of my favourites and I’ve been lucky enough to see his work in London, Paris and Tokyo.
Dolk is a favourite too and whilst this Kitty Riot is up there, my No1 of his is this one https://tinyurl.com/y3q2s598
Lee says
Likewise. Always a treat to find some. Even better when they survive like this one.
Yeah, the light was lovely that day, and that red hat really stood out for me. Almost like the missing colour of Hello Kitty’s bow.
Invader is a big favourite of mine too. Sadly a few here have been removed or painted over, but happy to say there are still some left. And cheers for the link. That’s great. Wasn’t aware of that one, and having seen it now, I completely understand why you like it so much.
Rohan Gillett says
Really good! Great street art! I’ve never seen this before. Actually seeing this article just made me remember the Banksy piece that was taken down to “protect” it. I wonder if that mouse has been sold yet …
Lee says
Cheers! And yeah, it really is good. Never fails to impress me when I turn the corner and see it. Always a nice little treat when I’m in the area.
Ah, yeah. I’d forgotten all about that. I don’t reckon it was a real one though, do you? But if it is, it’ll certainly go for a hefty chunk of change.
Rohan Gillett says
It might have been a real Banksy and it might not have been. I’ no expert on his work so I wouldn’t know. The one thing I do know, or at least confidant in saying, is that if it were him he wouldn’t be happy. If he puts it up, he wants everyone to enjoy it not just a few. Street art is for everyone, not just those with the pocket change to buy it.
Lee says
Yeah, that’s a very good point. Preservation is all well and good, but not if it means almost nobody is going to see and enjoy it…