In the 2000s, Yoshitomo Nara's art continued to evolve, building upon the themes and styles he had developed in previous decades while also exploring new mediums and expressions. This period marked a significant phase in Nara's career, characterized by increased recognition and a deeper exploration of his artistic and thematic preoccupations. After returning to Japan from Germany, where he had lived and worked for over a decade, Nara's art began to reflect a fusion of his experiences and influences from both Japanese and Western culture. His work from this period includes portrayals of children that combine elements from traditional Japanese theatrical masks, manga, and historical ukiyo-e woodblock prints, showcasing a blend of old and new, East and West​ (Christie's)​. Nara also became associated with the avant-garde Superflat movement, alongside artists like Takashi Murakami. This movement examined Japan’s hyper-consumerist culture using bright colors, patterns, and motifs from Japanese cartoons, reflecting the skepticism of Japanese youth towards their country's consumerist tendencies. Despite the seemingly innocent appearance of his subjects, Nara’s works often reveal a darker side, with children brandishing weapons or exhibiting menacing expressions, hinting at themes of aggression and defense in a hostile world​ (Christie's)​. During the 2000s, Nara's reputation grew significantly, both in Japan and internationally. His work was featured in solo and group exhibitions, and his pieces achieved remarkable prices at auctions. This decade saw Nara experimenting with sculpture, creating three-dimensional versions of the figures from his paintings, which carried the same emotional depth and complexity as his two-dimensional works​ (The Art Story)​​ (Christie's)​. The Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011 profoundly impacted Nara, leading to a temporary halt in his artistic production. This event reminded Nara of his connections to the affected areas and led to a period of reflection and creativity influenced by his personal ties to the devastated regions. Despite these challenges, Nara's work continued to receive global recognition, with major shows and acquisitions by prestigious institutions, further cementing his status as a leading figure in contemporary art​ (Christie's)​. Throughout the 2000s and into the present, Nara has maintained a focus on individual expression, resisting overt cultural or political messages in his work. He emphasizes a personal approach to art-making, suggesting that his creations are meant to resonate on an individual level rather than as commentary on broader societal issues​ (Christie's)​​ (Pace Gallery)​. This period in Nara's career highlights his ongoing exploration of childhood, isolation, and rebellion, themes that have continued to define his work and resonate with audiences around the world.