Auction introduction: Sotheby’s Contemporary Discoveries is delighted to announce the return of Kawaii Pop 2.0! Following its success in May 2021, this edition continues to explore the concept of “cuteness” from its roots as a subculture aesthetic to a global phenomenon of contemporary culture. Works by pioneering young artists such as Ayako Rokkaku, Mayuka Yamamoto, Roby Dwi Anotono and Noritoshi Mitsuuchi shed light on kawaii culture either through a nostalgic reimagining of childhood fantasy or with a pop-infused satire of today’s hyper-consumer realm. Such journeys into whimsy and folklore, kaleidoscopic colors, and quirky glimpses into the subconsciousness are a form of escape from the realities of everyday life while at the same time serving as defiant commentary against social pressures. The global influence of kawaii pop recurs in the works of contemporary darlings outside of Japan, including Jon Burgerman, Edgar Plans, Okokume and Kasing Lung. It also permeates through the works of younger artists such as Adam Handler, Nikki, Super Future Kid and Xavi Carbonell, each artist synthesising Japanese and Western popular culture with their own signature aesthetic.