Yoshitomo Nara (1959–) is an internationally renowned contemporary artist born in Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture. Through his depictions of childlike figures with large heads and piercing gazes, he has explored complex emotions such as loneliness, defiance, anxiety and inner strength. In addition to painting, he also creates drawings, sculptures and installations.

Although these figures may appear cute at first glance, their expressions seem to shift gradually the longer one looks at them. Behind their intense, piercing gaze lie feelings of loneliness and bewilderment, which evoke memories and emotions in the viewer. A major part of their appeal lies in the way they convey complex inner worlds within simple forms.