Yoshitomo Nara's works on cardboard are part of his broader exploration in utilizing various materials to convey his unique artistic vision. In his exhibition "Pinacoteca" at Pace Gallery, Nara showcased a diverse range of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and notably, works on cardboard. These pieces further demonstrate his adeptness in balancing material aesthetics with profound reflections on human experiences such as pain, war, spirit, politics, loneliness, music, and nature​ (Pace Gallery)​.

One of the distinctive characteristics of Nara's cardboard works is their raw and immediate texture, which adds a layer of depth and authenticity to his iconic imagery. For instance, in pieces like "Okhotsk Girl Island, Cape Shiretoko," created in 2020, Nara employs acrylic, crayon, and colored pencil on cardboard, presenting his trademark figures with large heads and expressive eyes against the unrefined backdrop of the cardboard material. This choice of medium contributes to the piece's emotional resonance, highlighting themes of innocence, introspection, and rebellion that are recurrent in Nara's oeuvre​ (GalleriesNow)​.

Nara's "Ceramic Works" exhibition at Pace Gallery in Seoul further exemplifies his innovative use of materials, displaying over 140 ceramics and 30 drawings on both cardboard and paper. These works invite viewers into Nara’s imaginative world, where his child-like characters are given new life through hand-painted expressions and thoughtful compositions. The exhibition underscored Nara's continuous curiosity and experimentation with forms and textures, seeking to explore the connections between art and human experience​ (Whitewall)​.

Through his works on cardboard, Nara disrupts traditional gallery spaces by integrating everyday materials into fine art, challenging viewers to reconsider the boundaries of artistic expression. These pieces, often adorned with simple yet potent imagery, invite a closer, more personal engagement, reflecting Nara’s intent to create a direct and intimate dialogue with his audience.