An art exhibition in Japan has stirred controversy following a public backlash over an illustration depicting women. Critics accuse the artwork of misrepresentation and male gaze, fueling passionate discussions online. Although the when and where of the exhibition are not detailed, this criticism emerges against a backdrop of growing discourse about gender bias and representation in Japanese society.

Art, including illustrations, forms a significant part of Japanese culture, often reflecting its societal norms and patterns. Gender representation, in all media forms, has been a point of contention and many people now speak up against perceived misrepresentation or objectification, especially in the backdrop of the #MeToo movement. Public criticism of art pieces is seen as a way of challenging these existing norms and sparking conversations about equality and rights.

In the US or EU, similar issues are also highly provocative. However, protests and public backlash are frequently seen more on the streets and are generally followed by immediate responses or accountability from involved parties. The freedom of expression in art is respected as well, but biased representation issues are taken seriously with immediate repercussions in public opinion.