Japanese art reveals anxieties through invented monsters

A Japanese art competition reveals citizens' anxieties through the creation of new "yōkai," or folk spirit monsters. These contemporary creatures reflect modern fears. The Yokai Art Museum in Tonosho showcases nearly 900 artworks, including sculptures of original, contemporary yōkai submitted through an open competition. The museum's director, Chubei Yagyu, curates the collection, which includes submissions from both Japan and abroad. Historically, yōkai represented fearsome spirits, but modern interpretations have evolved to include humorous and playful characters. The competition highlights how anxieties are expressed through art.