I recently had the most amazing time visiting the Harajuku Haven Bitter Sweet exhibition in London.
As described on Harajuku Haven’s Instagram, ‘Bitter Sweet delves into the juxtaposition of cuteness and darkness within J-Fashion and Kawaii culture, exploring how cuteness serves as both a form of healing and a vehicle for escapism.’ Harajuku Haven platforms independent and small artists, with this particular exhibition featuring works from over 30 artists. Here are some of my favourites.
Off Duty Princess and Mae Rose Design both showed examples of their beautiful dresses. You can get your very own custom from Off Duty Princess via commission, and you can admire more of Mae Rose’s portfolio on her Instagram.
I adore mixed media, especially when it incorporates textiles, so I was obsessed with 7000nuch’s work. My photos absolutely don’t do them justice, they were even more impressive in real life.
Konohart’s artwork combined the more typical painting medium with stickers, ephemera, and even lace to create the most amazing textures. I want to try this method myself!
I loved the colours in Kirby Nye’s diptych and Cat Teeth’s portrait.
I still can’t get my head around Amoebamae’s portrait being a digital illustration, it looks so real! I am in so much awe of all the artists showcased.
I found the event accommodating for my sensory issues and it was accessible by elevator.
While Bitter Sweet is now over, keep an eye on Harajuku Haven’s Instagram to see what they’re planning next. You can view more from the artists in this slideshow and some of the artists will also be exhibiting at Hyper Japan soon, and many have online stores, so please check those out!
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