Superflat is a postmodern art movement influenced by manga and anime. It is intended as an analysis of post-war Japanese culture through the eyes of the otaku subculture.

Artists who do work that is considered "Superflat" include Yoshitomo Nara , Takashi Murakami, and Aya Takano . In addition some animators within anime and some manga-ka are considered Superflat especially Koji Morimoto and much of the output of his animation studio Studio 4°C and the work of Hitoshi Tomizawa author of Alien 9 and Milk Closet.

Murakami defines "Superflat" in broad sweeping terms so the subject matter is very diverse. Often the works take a critical look at the consumerism and sexual fetishism that is prevalent in post-war westernized Japanese culture. One target of this criticism is lolicon art, which is satirized by works such as those by Hanmaru Machino . These works are an exploration of otaku sexuality through grotesque and or distorted images. Other works are more concerned with the Moratorium complex (a fear of growing up). For example Yoshitama Nara's work often features playful graffiti on old Japanese ukiyo-e executed in a childish sort of manner. Other works are more concerned with the structure and underlying desires that comprise otaku and overall post-war Japanese culture.

See also

• Cute formalism

External links

• Superflat Japanese Postmodernity - essay by Hiroki Azuma
• Superflat - overview by Hunter Drohojowska-Philp