Collecting the works of Japanese visual artist and musician Tetsunori Tawaraya, “Tetsupendium Tawarapedia” contains a decade's period, 2002-2012, of the unique visual styling and narrative approach of the riotous creator. The 15 collected offer a broad and varied look into Tawaraya through the 2000's and early 2010's.
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In looking at such a broad period of Tawayara's work, the tendency to experiment both stylistically and narratively, it is difficult to summarize the collection under observations that would apply across the entire collection. As a result, the related experience to this work may come across differently to other readers. It is undeniable that such a broad exploration of the eclectic work of the artist, first and foremost, acts as the primary draw to this release.
Within such great diversity in approach, there are certain elements that ground the work and help to better define it. Firstly, the approach to the work takes on a ‘punk' aesthetic, perhaps reflective of his music, in establishing a semi-confrontational approach to narrative. Additionally, an abundance of absurdity speaks to the sentiment of establishing of one's own boundaries as to what is acceptable. However, that is not to say that the work feels like an extension of misanthropy or unchecked angst, as Tawaraya's ability to add comedy into the mix shows a a degree of playfulness and self awareness.
All these elements lead to a rather chaotic flow of the material, with violence, comedy and anger becoming interchangeable within each panel (giving credence to the perception of ‘punk' influences). To those willing to embrace the chaos, the art and narrative will be both entertaining and engaging. However, Tawaraya's aesthetic does have a downside as well, as the work is hard to consume in large amounts, and the larger edition can dull the experience. Thankfully, readers can take in the work at their own pace, and enjoy the absurdist work sporadically to optimize enjoyment and engagement.
The visual approach also contains similarities, perhaps most notably in the exploration of body transformation. Spectacles like melting faces, and metamorphosis into amorphous creatures offer a nightmarish take on body horror. Additionally, the artist's approach in some chapters that have an over emphasis of texture work helps to further push the revolting vibe.
Released from Hollow Press, who have published notable work of Shintaro Kago (“Princess of the Never-Ending Castle“, “Super-Dimensional Love Gun“), this release maintains the high quality standards that makes their work notable in the realm of underground comics. This release may be more compact than some other editions from the publisher but still boasts; good quality stock, a pleasing layout, a dust jacket that tears away for a great reveal, and an interview at the end to give the reader deeper insight into the material.
It is without question that “Tesupendium Tawarapedia” will hold limited appeal, which is often the intended nature of underground comics. However, For those willing to explore, or those who love experimental work but previously unaware of Tawayara, this edition is an ideal introduction to the absurdist stylings of the standout talent from the underground.
