Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on September 2010

Super cute with a sinister twist—that’s the specialty of artist Yoshitomo Nara, whose alternately charming and creepy creations expose violent undercurrents in Japan’s kidult pop culture. Take Soran-chan, for instance: though a little lighter than Nara’s usual fare, she still manages to balance the bitter with the sweet. Simply lift up her blue hair to reveal a treasure trove of yummi gummi sweets hidden beneath her inscrutable exterior. Soran-chan is part of Nara’s Gummi Girl series, which includes Luminous-chan, Modiro-chan and Orange-chan. All are perfect gifts for the art-lover with a sweet tooth as, once the candy is polished off, these collectors’ items are sure to appreciate in value.

¥3,780. Available at Omotesando Hills S and O: 3F Dojun Wing, Omotesando Hills, 4-12-10 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku. Open daily 11am-9pm. www.macmuseumshop.com