So I finally picked up a copy of Kanye West’s new album Graduation.

While spinning the CD in my stereo I was flipping through the album book. We’ve all seen the cover of Kanye’s album but I never questioned who the artist behind the work was. I just thought, “that looks cool”.

All the art on the Graduation is done by a Japanese artist named Takashi Murakami. Additionally, the entire production of the album art (from draft to computer composites) was done by Murakami’s artist collective, Kaikai Kiki Co., Ltd.

According to Kaikai Kiki’s official site:

The paintings, sculptures, and balloons of Takashi Murakami are colorful and attractive, and accessible in their reference to lovable cartoon characters. Murakami uses his deep understanding of Western art to integrate his work into its structure; working from the inside to portray “Japanese-ness” as a tool to bring about revolution in the world of art.

The use of Murakami’s art probably has something to do with Kanye West’s “recent stylistic infatuation with contemporary Japanese art and anime.” Considering Kanye’s music video for “Stronger”, I would have never guessed. haha

Once you flip open Graduation, it’s covered in cool artwork; but you’ll have to buy it to see the rest.

Takashi Murakami also designed the cover art for the singles “Can’t Tell Me Nothing” and “Stronger”.

I wish I would have looked into this sooner. Now I know at least.