Artistic Representations of Urban Shamans in Contemporary Japan Texts, Inter-actions and Efficacy

Abstract

This paper will investigate how the Japanese urban shamanic actor and role is constructed and represented by artists in different texts. Three case studies – writer Taguchi Randy, contemporary artist Mori Mariko, and musician Sugee – will be presented to illustrate the processes of re-appropriation of terms and themes in the contemporary narrative on urban shamans. The use of the word shāman – with new meanings attached – and the role of connecting humans with other-than-human entities – and especially with nature – will be analysed. Moreover, the connection to the so-called ‘new spirituality’ will be emphasized.