Beams America Presents Tadanori Yokoo and Daido Moriyama in LA

Summary

• Beams America LA pop-up, open through September 26, shows Tadanori Yokoo colorful posters and Daido Moriyama black and white street photos
• Exhibit includes rugs pajamas and wearable prints bringing their work into daily life

Beams America is showcasing Tadanori Yokoo and Daido Moriyama: Legendary Contemporaries of Japan as part of its BEAMS JAPAN pop-up in Los Angeles. The presentation highlights two of Japan’s most influential artists: Yokoo, celebrated for his colorful posters and paintings and Moriyama, known for his stark black and white photography of Tokyo’s streets.

“Yokoo and Moriyama embody the energy of Tokyo,” says Yoshiyuki Ogawa, director of TOKYO CULTUART by BEAMS. Since its start 17 years ago, the platform has focused on artists who reflect the creative spirit of the city.
The exhibition features Yokoo’s offset print posters and paintings alongside special products such as rugs and pajamas printed with his imagery. Moriyama’s signature photographs also appear in wearable formats, giving visitors a new way to engage with his work.

Both artists were born in the 1930s and grew up during a time of war and cultural upheaval. Yokoo began his career in graphic design before moving into painting and poster art. His work blends influences from traditional Japanese woodblock prints, Dadaism, and American Pop Art. Moriyama also started in graphic design before dedicating himself to photography. His grainy images are shaped as much in the darkroom as on the street, a process that gave rise to his most famous work, “Stray Dog,” first published in Asahi Camera magazine.

Although their styles differ, the two shared ideas throughout their careers. Moriyama once photographed New York at Yokoo’s suggestion, showing the creative exchange between them. The pop-up is open through September 26, head to Beams America’s website for more info.

BEAMS JAPAN POP-UP
609 Imperial Street
Los Angeles, California