Yoshitomo Nara’s paintings are characterised by his iconic childlike figures with large, expressive eyes that convey a spectrum of emotions from innocence to defiance. Working primarily with acrylic on canvas, he layers muted tones and subtle textures, drawing inspiration from Japanese folklore, anime and punk rock culture. Nara's backgrounds are often simplified, emphasising the emotional presence of his subjects. His figures, though seemingly sweet, carry a quiet intensity that challenges viewers' perceptions of childhood. Through his paintings, Nara explores themes of solitude, resilience and the complexities of human emotion, creating poignant and psychologically charged works.