Murakami blends traditional Japanese painting, a love of Pop Art, and the influence of manga, Japanese comics. Bright colors and action-packed compositions support his signature character (and alter ego) Mr. DOB. With his round ears and expressive face, Mr. DOB, inspired by Mickey Mouse, often appears sweet, but here we see the sinister side of Murakami’s star. The title and swirling forms refer to DNA—Mr. DOB has mutated, now a highly distorted figure with sharp fangs and beady eyes.

---