David Bowie lives on as traditional Japanese artwork.

UKIYO-E PROJECT was started by Yuka Mitsui, CEO of Mitsui Agency International, to preserve the traditional art of Japanese woodblock paintings and revitalize interest in one of Japan's most iconic art forms by merging ukiyo-e style artwork with characterizations of legendary musical artists. In the past, the project has produced gorgeous and striking Japanese woodblock prints of celebrated artists such as KISS, as well as a metal and ukiyo-e mashup of Iron Maiden that turned mascot Eddie into a blood-soaked demon.

Now the project will turn its spotlight to legendary musical artist David Bowie, showcasing the prints from June 23rd to July 1st at BOOKMARC in Shibuya. The project enlists skilled artisans in a tribute to Bowie, "understanding the special connection that David Bowie had with Japan, his love for Japanese culture, and the creative relationship with Japan that formed from his early years...", according to the official website.

David Bowie Shapeshifting Comparison "Kidomaru" (Aladdin Sane) Ukiyo-e

Each piece ties Bowie into the world of Japanese mythology as well as existing ukiyo-e pieces, the first of which is Kidomaru. "Kidomaru" is a legendary Japanese sorcerer that is commonly featured as the subject of Ukiyo-e during the Kamakura Period in stories such as "Kokonchomonjyo" and "Shitennoshoutouiroku" from "Kyokuteibakin". This artwork portrays a cross between savage Kidomaru managing snake and Bowie glowing with subtle and mystic power."

David Bowie Shapeshifting Comparison "Takezawa Toji" (Diamond Dogs) Ukiyo-e

The second piece unites Bowie with Takezawa Toji II, a popular magician from the Edo Period that "resembles the dog from "Diamond Dogs" as a nine-tailed fox being the subject of the act, and portrays Bowie as Toji spinning a top."

The prints are limited to 200 copies each, and are priced at 108,000 yen. More information about the exhibit can be found at the official website, and press release.


By - Big Neko.