Artist Murakami wields imagination on a massive scale

ASIAN FINANCIAL FORUM
By NORIYUKI TOMITA

Takashi Murakami stands in front of a section of his painting "The 500 Arhats."

JAPAN---Call it his homage to modern Japanese art or a spectacular work of Buddhist salvation. Either way, Takashi Murakami is once again providing the world with a view on Japan through the lense of otaku culture. "The 500 Arhats" -- a 3-meter tall by 100-meter wide painting -- is now on exhibit at the Mori Art Museum, in the capital's Roppongi district. Arhats are entities considered to be enlightened disciples of the Buddha who spread his teachings and salve humanity from its worldly desires. [link]