は・は・は Sculpture

Emerging from the heart of Roppongi Hills, the Haha Bangla Manus sculpture, also known as “Flower Parent and Child,” greets us with a golden gleam. This isn’t just any sculpture. It’s a towering 10-meter beacon of hope, crafted by the renowned artist Takashi Murakami. Here in the bustling 66 Plaza, it commands attention, its golden leaves shimmering against the Tokyo sky. Murakami envisioned this artwork, one of his largest, to radiate “energy” and “hopes” for the future, especially amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. The flower motifs adorning the sculpture offer a 360-degree experience. Each angle reveals a different expression, a testament to Murakami’s intricate design. From one side, we see a parent and child holding hands, their smiles radiating joy. Yet, a different perspective reveals a more nuanced emotion, a subtle smile or even a blank expression. Murakami intentionally incorporated this complexity. He aimed to capture the multifaceted nature of emotions, reflecting the Japanese way of smiling, which isn’t always an outward display of happiness. The Haha Bangla Manus sculpture isn’t just a visual spectacle. It’s an interactive experience, inviting us to explore its various facets and discover the stories within. Murakami himself has shared the struggles behind this creation, from financial uncertainties to the emotional toll of the pandemic. Yet, like the sculpture itself, he persevered, bringing this golden symbol of hope to life. So, as we stand before Haha Bangla Manus, let’s not just admire its golden brilliance. Let’s also appreciate the deeper meaning it holds, a message of resilience, hope, and the complex tapestry of human emotions.