Kiss ukiyo-e prints go on sale to rock art industry

[yuiyoshida]

Kiss, the veteran U.S. rock band famed for its makeup, elaborate costumes and wild stage performances, has adopted a new look to help revitalize a traditional Japanese art industry.

Sales started on March 3 for ukiyo-e woodblock prints featuring the four Kiss members in their trademark makeup but portrayed as Japanese characters and creatures.

One print, named “Seppun Yoninshu Okubi Zoroe” (Portrait of four "Kiss" men), depicts the rockers as Kabuki actors. The other print, “Seppun Yoninshu Henyo-zu” (Transformed four "Kiss" men), shows them as “yokai” monsters and a samurai warrior.

The Kiss members are the first foreign stars to join the Ukiyo-e Project, which is designed to bolster the ukiyo-e industry through collaboration with celebrities.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/cool_japan/style/AJ201503030069

[antiquie]

1. Excellent project and good pairing with Kiss.

[Coventina]

2. Not a fan of Kiss, but I am a fan of ukiyo-e! Very cool idea!!!