Dark and sweet, but creepycute here to stay
From cuddly cushions shaped like giant insects to paintings of doe-eyed dolls sobbing in the forest, things that are at the intersection of cute and creepy are fascinating people around the world.
Called ‘‘kimo-kawaii’’ in Japan, where the style was first recognised, it is typified by popular characters such as the Kobitodukan, a collection of dwarf-like creatures with strange human faces, and Gloomy Bear, who is pink and cute like Hello Kitty but has a murderous streak.
Locally, Tanja Jade McMillan (previously Thompson, and known as Misery) has long been a champion of this look. Her art is instantly recognisable, thanks to its doleful or subversive childlike characters, who populate strange, fantastical worlds.
‘‘I think the juxtaposition of cute and creepy is adorable, loveable and humorous,’’ said McMillan.
‘‘We all have a little bit of sweet and twisted darkness within us. My 2-year-old daughter is all about being a cute creep, she is a ghost or monster every day.’’
McMillan said she has always found an element of humour, innocence and beauty in things that are dark and macabre.
‘‘My love for Japanese art growing up inspired me a lot, manga and old cartoons that combined cuteness and violence.
‘‘As a shy and anxious teenager in the late 90s, being