“The Complexity of Cute” podcast introduces a variety of perspectives on the study of cuteness.

Cute images are often used to tell people what to do in Japan. Public and government organizations rely on cute mascots to innocuously assert their authority.

In this painting, a rice paddle (spatula) dressed in a woman’s kimono dances with a cat.

Kyaraben, or character bento lunchboxes, incorporate food made to look like well-loved characters.