Check out this site dedicated to the art of Takashi Murakami, who many feel is contemporary Japan’s most well-known artist on the world stage.

Artist Takashi Murakami is a litany of contradictions — trained in classical art, he made his name through otaku pop culture; a fashion icon who rarely wears anything other than scruffy jeans and T-shirts; his work can be seen on cheap trinkets and 500,000 yen handbags.

Mirakami’s success is said to be based on a blend of artistry and business savvy.

[H]e has a keen business sense rarely seen among artists, with his efforts directed not just toward his own success, but also that of young talents in both Japan and the United States.

Murakami uses Kaikai Kiki, the company he found in the Saitama Prefecture satellite town of Asuka, to produce art and manage such artists. Murakami has frequently stated he was inspired by Bill Gates and is known for running a tight ship with a strong emphasis on high quality, speedy production without incurring unnecessary cost.

Twice a year, Kaikai Kiki also hosts Geisai, an ever-growing event where artists can rent booths to display their works. It serves as the major method Murakami goes about promoting Japanese artists. He says Japanese art has much to offer the world.

Read more http://www.takashimurakami.com/ and here.