LOS ANGELES, CA.- The Japanese American National Museum is presenting a first-of-its-kind exhibition in honor of the 40th anniversary of pop icon Hello Kitty. Hello! Exploring the Supercute World of Hello Kitty combines a product-based historical and sociological examination of Hello Kitty, including rare and unique pieces from Sanrio’s archives, with an installation of mixed media works by artists demonstrating Hello Kitty’s influence on contemporary art.

Christine Yano, author of Pink Globalization: Hello Kitty’s Trek Across the Pacific, serves as curator for the retrospective component of the exhibition. Jamie Rivadeneira, founder and owner of pop culture-inspired boutique JapanLA, curated the contemporary art component. Lectures, panel discussions, and workshops will be scheduled during the exhibition’s six-month run, offering opportunities for the public to learn more about and gain new appreciation for the evolution of Hello Kitty, the role she has played bridging Japanese and American cultures in the U.S., and fans’ emotional connection to the character.

The JANM exhibition is a key element among several events and collaborations celebrating Hello Kitty’s 40th Anniversary. These also include Hello Kitty Con 2014, a convention at the Geffen Contemporary at MOCA, running October 30–November 2; new product releases, including limited addition 40th anniversary collectibles; and Hello Kitty appearances around the globe in support of the Share a Hug with Hello Kitty! campaign.

Hello! Exploring the Supercute World of Hello Kitty will be a specially-ticketed exhibition, on view through April 26.

Sanrio is the global lifestyle brand best known for pop icon Hello Kitty®, who celebrates her 40th Anniversary this year. Home to many endearing characters including Chococat® My Melody®, Badtz-Maru® and Keroppi®, Sanrio was founded on the “small gift, big smile®” philosophy—that a small gift can bring happiness and friendship to people of all ages. Since 1960, this philosophy has served as the inspiration for the broad spectrum of unique products and experiences. Today, more than 50,000 Sanrio-branded items are available in over 70 countries and upwards of 15,000 U.S. retail locations including department, specialty, national chain stores and over 80 Sanrio boutiques.