DOB in the Strange Forest presents the viewer with a complex concoction of entertainment-value, visual stimulation, and social commentary.
DOB, one of Murakami's favorite and most enduring characters, stands forlornly surrounded by the watchful eyes of a menacing collection of multi-colored "magic" mushrooms. In a thinly veiled reference to the ubiquitous nature of contemporary drug culture, the clear hallucinogenic references are reinforced by psychedelic swirls of rich pigment that envelop every square inch of the surface of the mushrooms. DOB stands in the middle of this circle, right hand held aloft as though commanding an end to this multicolored nightmare. Yet the figure also conveys a sense of innocence, as if it had wandered into an enchanted forest filled with unknown creatures peering out from the undergrowth. Mixed into this audacious tableau are clear references to anime, which has engulfed modern Japan, and which builds on the country's preeminent graphic tradition.
Complete with original publication certificates.
Publisher | Bijutsu Shuppan-sha, Tokyo, 1999. First edition, first printing. Soft cover. Photographically illustrated wrappers; with printed die-cut dust jacket
Condition | Good, slight shelfwear as expected for age, corner is slightly bent over around half cm in top right.
Recommendation | This is a not a crowd pleaser book, would recommend this for Murakami collectors mostly. Those with casual interest or for more bang for your book I'd recommend Murakami 'EGO' also on the store.
Multiple Languages. Primarily Japanese.
ISBN | 9784568103250
