When it comes to “cutness,” one cannot help but think of Japan. Whether it’s people, cartoons, or design styles, “かわいい” (Kawaii) has been interpreted into various artistic works over time. Among those who must be mentioned is the Japanese illustrator Harada Osamu, known as the “progenitor of cuteness.” His creations have defined a generation of cute aesthetics in Japan and have continued the culture of cuteness into the realm of lifestyle aesthetics.
He interprets cuteness in all his works, exuding an irresistible charm; yet behind this cuteness lies Osamu’s endless creativity and ideas, giving each design a profound cultural depth. Now, let’s take you into the world of OSAMU GOODS, revealing how he skillfully blends cuteness with taste, and experience the allure of OSAMU GOODS!
The American Vintage Style of “Cute Ancestor”
OSAMU GOODS® has been known for its cute cartoon characters and products since its establishment. This brand was created by Japanese illustration master Osamu Harada (1946 – 2016), who is also celebrated as the “father of kawaii.” His numerous character designs were a significant foundation of Japan’s “kawaii culture” in its early days.
Growing up surrounded by art, Harada Osamu gradually developed an interest in painting. Later, he studied under the Western painter Kawabata Gyokushō’s grandson, Kawabata Minoru, and graduated from the Design Department of Tama Art University. He then furthered his studies in the United States, where he delved deeper into illustration, which became a key influence on his creative style.
Osamu Harada began his career as an illustrator in 1970 with the magazine “an・an” and has published works such as “OSAMU GOODS STYLE” and “My Art Notebook.” In 1976, he co-founded the brand “OSAMU GOODS” with KOJI HONPO.
Influenced by American culture, Harada Osamu, in response to client requests, created merchandise featuring his original characters, leading to the launch of the OSAMU GOODS characters, a total of 12, all adapted from the ancient British nursery rhyme “Mother Goose.” On November 1, 1976, Harada Osamu teamed up with poet Chie Sakai to publish a picture book titled “OSAMU’s Mother Goose,” and the innocent and charming appearance of these characters successfully captured the hearts of young girls.
The most familiar and representative little boy JACK and little girl JILL show how Harada Osamu blended American comic colors with Japanese minimal lines. From 1976 to the 1990s, they enjoyed immense popularity! After nearly 50 years, they still maintain their vivacity and vitality.
Transformed from a Bedtime Story into a cute power!
As the characters gradually gained recognition, Osamu Harada hoped that each character could become the protagonist of a short story. Thus, he collaborated with several authors to create the short story collection “Osamu Goods Bedtime Stories” and illustrated cute images based on the original stories.
However, he weaves the innocence of childhood into the warm aesthetics of life, not just designed for children, but to tell people: cuteness is definitely not just for kids; adults can be subtly cute too!
To express a sense of adult-like cuteness, Harada Osamu deliberately chose mature-style fonts for layout, focusing on simple and unboring lines and shapes in his designs. He also utilized fresh and soothing colors that align with his idea of “cuteness”: bright, carefree, healthy, while also conveying a touch of loneliness and melancholy.
Hong Kong’s adorable limited edition
「OSAMU GOODS go to HONG KONG」
In the past, Harbour City also co-hosted an overseas exhibition “Harada Osamu’s OSAMU GOODS Exhibition” with OSAMU GOODS and launched a limited edition collaboration umbrella.
In December of last year, OSAMU GOODS made its presence felt again at 1881 Heritage in Tsim Sha Tsui, featuring the limited-time store “OSAMU GOODS go to HONG KONG,” brought by the local trendy toy platform KKPLUS. It attracted many visitors who went to pay homage, becoming a vibrant celebration of cute culture!
It is particularly noteworthy that there are over 30 unique products designed and manufactured by KKPLUS, covering lifestyle accessories, home decor, and cute pendants. Special Lunar New Year themed merchandise has also been prepared, including: stamp sets, red envelopes, cotton small bags, festive cookie gift boxes, and boxed coffee drip bags, to celebrate a delightful and festive Kawaii New Year together with everyone!
Harada Osamu OSAMU GOODS go to HONG KONG
Date: December 21, 2024 to February 10, 2025
Location: 2A Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui 1881 Heritage House 1
Opening Hours: 11:00 – 21:00