Black Lives Matter (Square with Flowers and Skulls)

"I have said that a role of an artist is to discern the present and express it for the future audience. But if my art can affect any change here and now, I want to contribute it not only to give back but to give power to the Black community plagued by the racial injustice. And so I decided to produce a series of prints for sale, to donate the entire proceeds to the U.S. organizations fighting for social justice and racial equality."

Created in support of the Black Lives Matter movement in 2020, Takashi Murakami designed the series of screenprints as a way to give back and speak up about a cause he deeply believed in. A friend and collector, Kid Cudi purchased these works on NTWRK, to support both the artist and the cause.

Kid Cudi and Takashi Murakami first collaborated in Murakami's Japan studio to create the cover art for Cudi's 2018 Kids See Ghosts album. An avid collector and longtime admirer of Murakami's work, Cudi has amassed an extensive selection of the renowned artist's creations. Over the years, their relationship has evolved into a genuine friendship, inspiring a series of remarkable collaborations.

Signed, dated and numbered in pencil 'Takashi Murakami 2020 4/300' (lower right).