“King of Kawaii” Sebastian Masuda Talk and Q&A

Sebastian Masuda, renowned as the “King of Kawaii,” is set to grace Anime Expo 2024 with an insightful talk, promising a journey into the vibrant world of kawaii culture. Moderated by actress and producer Michelle Nguyen Bradley, the lively discussion will delve into the origins, evolution, and global impact of kawaii culture. From its humble beginnings in Japan to its current status as a global phenomenon, Masuda will shed light on how kawaii means much more than simply “cute aesthetics”, and has developed into an inclusive, collective community that transcends cultural boundaries.

He will also share a closer look at his latest exhibition, “Yes, KAWAII is Art -EXPRESS YOURSELF-,” on view at JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles through November 3. This much-anticipated exhibition is a celebration of creativity and self-expression through the lens of kawaii, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in its colorful and captivating world.

Don’t miss this Anime Expo 2024 talk which promises to be a celebration of all things kawaii, offering attendees a chance to gain deeper insights into this beloved cultural phenomenon.

Note: This program requires an admission badge to Anime Expo.

About the Speakers

Sebastian Masuda
Masuda began his career in theater and contemporary art in the early 1990s. In 1995, he opened the fashion shop 6%DOKIDOKI which became a platform for artistic expression. Currently working out of both Tokyo and New York, Masuda creates works that transcend the boundaries of art, fashion, and entertainment, showcasing a consistent and unique sense of color. From 2009 to 2011, Masuda conducted the "Harajuku Kawaii Experience" world tour, spreading awareness about ...  Read more.

the history of Harajuku and kawaii culture in over 20 cities, with a focus on Europe and the United States. As art director for Kyary Pamyu Pamyu's 2011 "PONPONPON" music video, Masuda was pivotal in introducing kawaii culture to the world. In 2015, he created Tokyo's Kawaii Monster Cafe, and in 2023, produced the restaurant SUSHIDELIC in New York, further contributing to the global recognition of kawaii culture.

Michelle Nguyen Bradley (Moderator)
Michelle Nguyen Bradley (she/they) is a producer, show host, voice actor, writer & professional TTRPG player. As a show & event producer, Michelle has a decade of experience creating fashion shows, concerts and street snap events for clients like 6% DOKIDOKI, Kyari Pamyu Pamyu, Hello Kitty, Rilakkuma and Rune Naito, and also immersive event experiences & broadcaster shows for ID@Xbox, Twitch, Disney, and Fortnite. Michelle has also hosted & MC’d for Anime Expo's Main Stage and fashion shows, ...  Read more.

FunimationCon, brand launches and more for over a decade. Michelle is a former writer for Geek & Sundry, Geek.com and Defective Geeks, and also has an extensive fashion background as the Lead Editor of the English language version of the Gothic & Lolita Bible street fashion magazine. You can also find Michelle on the tabletop gaming scene as an actor on shows like Critical Role: Elder Scrolls, Vampire the Masquerade: New York by Night, Idle Champions, and more! She is also co-founder, executive producer and host of Tabletop News. Find her work at michellenguyenbradley.com and on socials at @iamchubbybunny.

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