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For one week from July 21-28, “Mune Kyun Exhibit 2.5,” which was hugely successful in Tokyo, was held in Kansai. At the exhibit, works from eight creators all inspired by the ‘80s, a time period that saw rapid growth in Japan’s economy, were on display, which evoked feelings of nostalgia from spectators. Many goods were also for sale at the exhibit, including stickers, postcards, cell phone cases, and more. At the first day’s opening party, more than 100 people came and enjoyed conversing with the creators. At the event, we had the chance to talk with the extremely young creator from the Kansai area, Memo.
TOM: First of all, please tell us about the “Mune Kyun Exhibit.”
Memo: It began with a plan from creator REO Spikee, who loves the ‘80s. I was also invited by REO Spikee to participate. At first, the scale of the event was small, but it’s been held several times, and the exhibition space, number of works on display, and number of creators participating has continued to increase to its current scale. With this being the third time, I feel like this is the best one so far. All the works on display include past excitement and things that have been learned up until now. Considerable importance was placed on retaining the comfortable atmosphere of the early days of the exhibit.
TOM: What do you think is the fascination with the ‘80s?
Memo: Defining what is ‘80s-ish is difficult, but for me, I think it’s first of all divided into the early part and the latter part. This isn’t just limited to art, but also looking at things like fashion and music, the first part of the ‘80s had an entirely soft feel. Conversely, upon moving closer toward the ‘90s, the image changed to being more edgy and intense. I think this greatly embodied the economical situation of that time. Personally, I like the latter part of the ‘80s.
The roots that inspire us eight creators are all different. Though we all entered from completely different places, whether it was from comics and anime, fashion magazines from that time, music...there are common elements between our works being that they are all from the ‘80s that are interesting, don’t you think?
TOM: When did you get into drawing?
Memo: Around the time when I was in middle school. Ever since I can remember, I have enjoyed works that looked back at the past. When I was in middle school, I liked ‘70s-era comics, and I came to have an interest in the ‘80s when I entered high school. The basis for me beginning my work as a creator was the “Mune Kyun Exhibit.” I met all the wonderful creators and received lots of support.
TOM: What is your objective from here on as a creator?
Memo: I am in a period of study, so I want to do any work that is offered to me. I want to steadily absorb information and greatly mature as a creator. As for my future goals, I like good-looking guys, so I hope I can do work involving them someday!
Judging from this creator’s constant beaming expression during our time together, Memo seems to enjoy living every day to the fullest as a creator. The “Mune Kyun Exhibit” isn’t just held for visitors’ enjoyment; it’s also for creators to increase their bonds with each other. From here on as well, we want to keep an eye on these creators’ activities.
This is a Tokyo Otaku Mode original article.
