とりどり、ぞろり。(Toridori Zorori)

Mikuri Minami

mikuriminami1030@gmail.com / mikuriminami.com

Toridori Zorori is a series of art toys inspired by Yokai (Japanese supernatural creatures), designed to encourage self-acceptance and raise awareness of the mental and physical health risks that can arise from excessive appearance-related obsession among youth.

Yokai have traditionally symbolized misfortune, warned of danger, and taught moral lessons. Today, they are depicted as relatable companions in media like manga and anime.

With this in mind, each figure in Toridori Zorori embodies a different appearance-related insecurity, serving both as a tangible comforting companion and as a symbolic warning against the dangers of excessive obsession with appearances. Every figure comes with a mini-comic that shares the Yokai’s nature, role, and message, while a separate character book available at the exhibition provides deeper insight into each character’s design process and background.

The final installation, a modern reimagining of Hyakki Yakō (the Night Parade of One Hundred Yokai), illustrates how shared insecurities can feel overwhelming, yet reminds us they can be faced together.