Category: japanese culture

Sebastian Masuda’s “Colorful Rebellion” Exhibition 2/27 – 3/29

Sebastian Masuda visited New York City last year, with prospects of doing a future exhibition.  That exhibition is called “Colorful Rebellion – Seventh Nightmare.”  This will be his New York debut into the city’s art scene, which will certainly be a treat and definitely attract anyone interested in Japanese pop culture.  There is not much else revealed about his art exhibition other than the theme being the “2 Deadly Sins of Sebastian Masuda,” but it will be bright, colorful, and just plain bizarre.

From February 27 to March 29 you will be able to visit the artwork created by the same person behind 6%DokiDoki (which has an online shop now).  You’ll not only get to see his artwork in person, but see the man himself, Sebastian Masuda.  According to a TokyoFashion, he’ll also be holding special performances from March 3rd – March 6th, where his alter ego will appear.

Keep track via the gallery’s website or on Sebastian Masuda’s official Facebook page for behind the scene pictures and more.

Colorful Rebellion – Seventh Nightmare
Kianga Ellis Projects
516 West 25th Street
Studio 306B
New York, NY

Lolita Fashion: Costume or Culture 2/5

Misako at Tokyo Rebel in 2010

With a rapid growing community, Lolita fashion has become a popular topic. As such it’s important to bring to light the often misconceptions associated this Japanese fashion.  That it is not a costume, but a fashion.  However there is also a continual debate of whether it is a “lifestyle;” by adopting the fashion does one then adopt characteristics associated with “Lolita” fashion to be a true Lolita?

“Lolita Fashion: Costume or Culture” is become a popular event for the community, not only because of the topic but their speakers.  Japan Society has invited Misako Aoki, the former Kawaii Ambassador and founder of the Japan Lolita Association will be speaking about her thoughts on this debate of fashion versus culture.

She will be accompanied by two famous Lolita bloggers: Caro from FYeah Lolita and Christina from Ramble Rori. The lecture will be moderated by Gwyinn Galitzer.  Both ladies have dedicated themselves to dispelling myths and bringing insight to anyone interested on what Lolita fashion is really about.

There will be a small meet and greet wine reception after the lecture, so dress your best and learn what your fellow fashion enthusiasts have to say! As well as get an opportunity to meet a lot of well-dressed attendees and find out what Lolita fashion is really all about.

Lolita Fashion: Costume or Culture
February 5th, 2014
6:30PM
Japan Society
333 East 47th Street
New York, NY10017

MARUQ at NYCC + Looking for Volunteers!

Spread the word: Liz Lisa is coming to the East Coast!

Japanese fashion is getting easier to come by thanks to the Internet. Lolita brands like Innocent World and Metamorphose were one of the first shops to create an English version of their website. You can go to San Francisco and Paris to buy Baby, the Stars Shine Bright. If you go to conventions a lot you can often spot h.Naoto goods at their official booth. 
Now MARUQ (the U.S. carrier of Liz Lisa) is testing out the convention circuit by going to New York Comic Con next weekend from Oct 10th-13th.  
They will be at Booth# 678 and are carrying items from LizLisa, Tralala, and LizaLisa Doll, as well as other Japanese brands.  If you are planning to go to NYCC anytime, they will also be handing out phone decals for anyone who stops by and likes their Facebook page (or already have)!
Let them know that you liked their Facebook page and get a phone decal!
In addition to a booth, they are currently looking for volunteers to help out at their booth!
Requirements:
  • Must be 18 years or older
  • Must be available Oct 9th – 13th (9AM – 7PM)
If you or know someone who loves Liz Lisa or a fan of Japanese fashion and would like to help out: send an email with your name, age, a short introduction, as well as a headshot and a full body shot to tiffa@shopmaruq.com
If you’re planning to attend NYCC this is another reason to break out your wallet.  Stop by 678 and say hi to the shop girls — maybe do some shopping too!  I know I will.

Japanese Fast Food – Kobeyaki

There are not many ramen places in New York City. Correction: There are not many ramen places that do not require a two hour wait. The other part of your criteria is that it is authentic ramen and not the Maruchan freeze-dried kind.


Kobeyaki seems to satisfy this desire. It is fast food for people who don’t want a typical burger and fries with some Japanese fusion thrown in for good measure.  They have everything from sushi to Kobe burgers to ramen. The selection is small, but it makes up in taste.

The ramen was good and filling, despite the small size.  It satisfies your “I’m craving ramen” desires. I even started drinking the broth, which I never do.

It’s a bit pricey for your typical meal – calculate drink and food and you’ve got a little more than $10 to spend. Factor in that all there food is sustainable and locally grown (which they mention on their website), Kobeyaki is alright for a midterm study break or, in my case, just dinner since you’re not familiar with the Chelsea area.

It’s too bad there’s only one location (right now).

Kobeyaki
293 7th Ave
New York NY 10001
212-242-5500

Shake Ramen Salad – Japan Street Fair 7/24

Okonomiyaki anyone? (Japan Block Fair 2009)

Fried oreos and gyros are starting to taste the similar. And the reggaeton music is starting to just be a buzz in your ear. These are signs that you are suffering from street fair depression.

Everything is kind of whizzing by and the people are starting to know your name. It’s time for you to experience a different street fair (Not referring to the one the day after).

Hop on a R or E train and head to Astoria for the Japan Block Fair.

There’ll be food, goods, and performances. Vendors such has Hakata TonTon, Kiteya, Teriyaki Ball Shop, and many others will be in attendance. So listen to some enka or be in awe at the taiko drummers.

Also this is one fair that encourages dressing up. Anyone in a yukata will receive a free gift. Did I mention there’ll be food?

Japan Block Fair
July 24th, 2011
11-6PM
Broadway at Steinway
Astoria Queens

*Shake Ramen Salad – cold ramen with arugula, dressing, and typical ramen toppings. Shake it all about and what do you get? Shake ramen salad! (I had this at the Asia Pacific Heritage Festival in Union Square thanks to Hakata Tonton. Perhaps they’ll have it at JBF too.)