Takashi Murakami, known for his distinctive “Superflat” style and his ability to blend high and pop art, has long been a trailblazer in the realm of contemporary art. His vibrant, whimsical, and often subversive creations have transcended the boundaries of the traditional canvas, finding their way into collaborations with fashion houses, music artists, and various other mediums. When the opportunity to collaborate with the Kpop group NewJeans arose, Murakami saw an opportunity to merge his artistic vision with the group’s magnetic charm and performances.
The collaboration between Murakami and NewJeans comes to life in a mesmerizing music video for the group’s track “Right Now.” In the visual, the five members of NewJeans – Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein – are transformed into their own iterations of the iconic Powerpuff Girls, complete with Murakami’s signature floral motifs and Kaikai Kiki characters. Expanding the collaboration beyond the music video, Murakami and NewJeans have also unveiled a merchandise capsule that brings the vibrant world of their collaboration to life. The centerpiece of this collection is a series of plush figurines, each member of NewJeans reimagined as a Powerpuff Girl, complete with their individual initials adorning the ears of the dolls.
The merchandise capsule also includes a range of bags and accessories, from crossbody bags to drawstring backpacks, all adorned with the captivating collaborative imagery. These pieces seamlessly blend Murakami’s iconic floral patterns and characters with the distinct visual identity of NewJeans, creating a cohesive and visually striking collection.
