Cool Japan: Otaku Strikes!
This past weekend, the Japan Society in New York City launched a series of events entitled Cool Japan: Otaku Strikes!, which run through the Spring. In the U.S., an Otaku is someone who is considered to be somewhat of a die-hard fan of manga or anime. However in Japan, an Otaku can also be related to music, cooking, video games—– you get the picture. When the term refers to anime or manga, sometimes fans will engage in cosplay, which is short for costume play (shown on the left are cosplayers of the Naruto anime series). This program offers events that explore how the Japanese otaku subculture has impacted film, art and design in Japan. Along with film and dance events, there will also be lectures on Japanese design and Takashi Murakami.
Photo from MasaMania
