 The Art of Collecting Handbags Handbags: Only in Los Angeles can you peruse prints by Andy Warhol and purchase the latest Louis Vuitton handbag without having to pay for valet twice. The Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles will be featuring the work of famous Japanese artist Takashi Murakami. While Murakami's exhibit will not entail any of his eclectic sculptures or Superflats, the ever-present theme of pop culture?a Murakami staple?will hardly be lacking.
The name Takashi Murakami resonates in the minds of Louis Vuitton followers as he is the artist who brought the loyal fans the first multi-colored collection. The new line of Murakami-designed handbags and small leather goods will be showcased in their very own Louis Vuitton boutique situated in the middle of MOCA's Geffen Contemporary space.
 Take a look at some of Murakami's previous exhibits
Louis Vuitton will be footing the bill for the unconventional "pop-up" exhibit; however, the concept of featuring high-fashion handbags at a non-profit, sanctuary of art leaves many uncertain. While plenty of unrelenting voices have surfaced, an overwhelming community remains, welcoming Murakami with open arms. According to the Los Angeles Times, MOCA Director Jeremy Strick finds validity in the collaboration between the museum and the ever-thriving fashion power house of Louis Vuitton.
"Murakami is an artist who is perhaps the most significant and influential artist to have emerged from Asia in the last half-century," Strick said. "And one of the key elements of his work is the way in which he melds commercial practice and fine art and really makes no distinction between the two."
And like any work of art, the Murakami designs will carry an inflated price tag. The Louis Vuitton store on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills will carry the same line?only without the artist's signature touch?for approximately $300 less. The limited-edition handbags, priced from $875 to $920, will be on display from October 29 to February 11, 2008.
For LxM Christina Stewart
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