Kitty Release Date Updates and Other Details

The Japanese American National Museum (JANM) is set to host a groundbreaking exhibition to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the beloved pop icon Hello Kitty. Starting October 11, 2014, the exhibition titled “Hello! Exploring the Supercute World of Hello Kitty” will delve into the historical and sociological impacts of this global phenomenon, showcasing rare artifacts from Sanrio’s archives alongside contemporary art inspired by Hello Kitty.

Curated by Christine Yano, author of “Pink Globalization: Hello Kitty’s Trek Across the Pacific,” the retrospective will explore the evolution of Hello Kitty within the cultural exchanges between Japan and America. Complementing this, Jamie Rivadeneira, the founder of JapanLA, will curate the contemporary art section, highlighting Hello Kitty’s influence on modern art. The exhibition promises a series of lectures, panel discussions, and workshops, enriching visitors’ understanding of Hello Kitty’s cultural significance.

40th Anniversary Celebrations

The exhibition is part of a series of events commemorating Hello Kitty’s 40th anniversary. These include the Hello Kitty Con 2014 at the Geffen Contemporary at MOCA from October 30 to November 2, featuring new product launches and limited edition collectibles. Additionally, Hello Kitty will be making appearances worldwide as part of the “Share a Hug with Hello Kitty!” campaign, further cementing her status as a cultural ambassador.

For those interested in attending the exhibition, it will be a ticketed event running through April 26, with further details on ticketing to be released in the summer. The JANM will continuously update the public on participating artists and the specific historical artifacts that will be on display through their website.

Other Exhibitions at JANM

Alongside the Hello Kitty exhibition, JANM is hosting several other significant exhibitions. “Colors of Confinement” showcases rare Kodachrome photographs from the World War II era, capturing the daily lives of Japanese Americans at the Heart Mountain concentration camp. This exhibition runs through August 31, 2014.

Additionally, “Dodgers: Brotherhood of the Game,” which runs through September 14, 2014, explores the history of the Dodgers baseball team and its impact on sports and culture. Another notable exhibition, “Perseverance: Japanese Tattoo Tradition in a Modern World,” also available until September 14, 2014, presents modern Japanese tattooing through the lens of traditional art forms.

About the Japanese American National Museum

Established in 1985, JANM is located in Los Angeles’ historic Little Tokyo district and serves as a hub for Japanese American culture and history. The museum offers a variety of exhibitions and programs that promote understanding and appreciation of America’s ethnic and cultural diversity. JANM operates Tuesday through Sunday and offers free admission on specific days and times, detailed on their website.

About Sanrio

Sanrio, the global lifestyle brand known for Hello Kitty, champions the philosophy that a small gift can bring happiness and friendship. Founded in 1960, Sanrio has introduced many characters alongside Hello Kitty, including Chococat, My Melody, and Keroppi, with products available in over 70 countries.

FAQs

• When does the Hello Kitty exhibition start?
  The exhibition opens on October 11, 2014, at the Japanese American National Museum.
• How long will the Hello Kitty exhibition run?
  It will be available until April 26, 2015.
• Are there any special events associated with the exhibition?
  Yes, the exhibition will include lectures, workshops, and panel discussions.
• How can I purchase tickets for the exhibition?
  Details on ticketing will be announced during the summer prior to the exhibition opening.
• What other exhibitions are available at JANM?
  Other exhibitions include “Colors of Confinement,” “Dodgers: Brotherhood of the Game,” and “Perseverance: Japanese Tattoo Tradition in a Modern World.”
• Where can I find more information about Hello Kitty’s 40th Anniversary?
  Updates and details are available at Sanrio’s official website and the JANM website.