A few months ago, I, John Kricfalusi of Spumco, had the incredible opportunity to collaborate with a Japanese clothing line. They approached me about illustrating some designs for shirts and sending over some of my artwork to be displayed at their store in Japan. This exciting venture took me on a trip to Japan, an experience filled with enthusiastic fans and impressive artists.
John Kricfalusi Storefront Display in Japan
The clothing line, Journal Standard, featured my illustrations on a range of shirts. It was amazing to see my characters brought to life on apparel in a completely different market.
John Kricfalusi T-Shirt Design for Journal Standard
You can still find a few of these collaboration shirts available online, showcasing designs that blend my signature Spumco style with Japanese fashion.
https://baycrews.jp/item/detail/journalstandard/cutsew/23071600931010
The highlight of the trip was an invitation to a special meet and greet event at the Journal Standard store on March 28, 2023. I was genuinely surprised and thrilled to discover just how many Japanese fans “Ren and Stimpy,” and my work with Spumco, have garnered over the years. The event was packed for the entire three hours!
Selection of John Kricfalusi T-Shirt Designs
Many attendees were cartoonists themselves, and I was blown away by their talent. Among them was a remarkably skilled 16-year-old named Uni. His enthusiasm for animation was infectious, and his drawing ability at such a young age was truly impressive – better than I was at 16! I have no doubt Uni has a bright future in animation. You can see more of his art @uni1015m.
Artwork by 16-year-old cartoonist Uni, a Ren and Stimpy fan
More artwork by Uni, showcasing his cartooning skills
Another talented cartoonist I had the pleasure of meeting was Rurumu. She brought an entire suitcase filled with her “Ren and Stimpy” merchandise, a testament to her dedication and fandom.
Rurumu's extensive Ren and Stimpy merchandise collection
Rurumu even showed me a fantastic diorama she created of the opening scene from “Stimpy’s Invention,” meticulously sculpting Ren, Stimpy, and even the mounted fish, building the entire room around them. The dedication and artistry were truly amazing.
Rurumu's fan art diorama of Stimpy's Invention
Close-up of Rurumu's handmade Ren and Stimpy figures
Another view of Rurumu's detailed diorama
I also met Mina, who had a fantastic sketchbook filled with her cartoon creations. She even gifted me a design for a holographic card, a truly unique and thoughtful present.
Cartoon art by Mina, Japanese fan and cartoonist
Lisa, another dedicated fan, showed up wearing an original “Ren and Stimpy” t-shirt from the early 90s! It was incredible to see such long-lasting appreciation for the show.
Lisa wearing a vintage Ren and Stimpy T-shirt
Another cartoonist, who goes by OPMM, was also at the event. He even had an exhibition running in Tokyo at the time. I particularly enjoyed his Rat Fink-inspired figures with a unique twist.
OPMM's cartoon exhibition display
OPMM's Rat Fink inspired art collection
During my time in Tokyo, I also had the pleasure of visiting Odd Job animation studio. They gave me a fantastic tour of their facilities and proudly showed off their impressive collection of vintage toys.
Shelves of vintage toys at Odd Job animation studio
Display cases filled with vintage toys at Odd Job studio
They even have their own toy figure, a character named ShashaMin, and they generously gifted me one, which I was happy to add to my own collection of animation memorabilia.
ShashaMin doll, a character figure from Odd Job animation studio
The entire week was filled with wonderful gift exchanges. Here’s a glimpse of some of the delightful treats I brought back home from Japan.
Selection of gifts and treats from Japan
My exhibition at the Journal Standard Omotesando store, located on Cat Street in Tokyo, ran until April 9, 2023.
Journal Standard Omotesando store (Cat Street)
5 Chome-25-4 Jingumae
Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001
Display of John Kricfalusi dolls at Journal Standard store
Inside the Journal Standard store with John Kricfalusi exhibition
Special thanks to Kishibi-san, Mami, Takayama-san, and the entire Journal Standard crew for making this collaboration and event a reality! It was an unforgettable experience to see the reach of Spumco’s cartoons and to connect with so many talented and passionate fans in Japan.
