Artistic Legitimation of Japanese Pop Culture in the Netherlands

This study discusses the artistic legitimation of the Japanese pop culture phenomenon Pokémon in the Netherlands, with a particular emphasis on the remarkable collaboration between the Van Gogh Museum and Pokémon. Using a theoretical framework of artistic legitimation processes, this study examines how both high and popular culture are recognized as art, emphasizing the importance of political opportunities, resource availability, and the ways in which these art forms are presented and interpreted. By examining political opportunities and resource mobilization, this study reveals how Dutch cultural conditions facilitated the growth of Japanese pop culture. Framing processes are then employed in content analysis to explore how cultural institutions present this art form to the public. The findings indicate that while Japanese cultural integration is recognized and valued in the Netherlands, personal experiences and historical connections play a significant role in legitimizing art. Traditional art is often held in higher regard due to its perceived cultural and historical significance, while the artistic legitimacy of Japanese pop culture is frequently questioned. In summary, although Japanese pop culture is becoming more integrated and appreciated within the Dutch cultural landscape, it is not yet widely accepted as a legitimate art form. These findings underscore the ongoing evolution of cultural legitimation processes and highlight the importance of active engagement by cultural institutions with the public to foster an inclusive and dynamic art world. This involves not only disseminating information but also actively listening to and addressing the diverse voices and needs of the audience, contributing to a more inclusive and vibrant artistic community. This study offers useful insights for cultural institutions and Japanese pop culture creators, while contributing to the theoretical framework of artistic legitimation by applying these theories to a non-Western art form in a Western setting.