Giant Robot was launched in 1994 by Eric Nakamura as a hand-assembled magazine. In a short time, it grew into an alternative pop culture movement in Los Angeles. For the past 30 years, Giant Robot has been a groundbreaking publication celebrating and promoting Asian American pop culture and artists. You can experience a glimpse of this legacy at the Giant Robot Biennale 5, held at the Japanese American National Museum in Little Tokyo.

Influenced by his passion for Asian pop culture, indie comics, and the DIY spirit of punk, Nakamura aimed to create a publication that would defy stereotypes and showcase the diverse talents of Asian Americans. As a result, Giant Robot became a powerful platform for emerging Asian American artists, writers, filmmakers, and creatives, many of whom received their first significant exposure through the magazine’s pages.

Although the magazine is no longer in circulation, two galleries in Los Angeles continue Eric Nakamura’s legacy. Today, these locations continue to bring talent and opportunity to gifted Los Angeles artists.

Over the past three decades, Giant Robot has made a profound impact on the Los Angeles art scene. The magazine covered various creative fields and cultural topics, fostering awareness and pride in Asian American identity and heritage. As a gallery, Giant Robot continues showcasing emerging and established Asian American artists. The Giant Robot Store has become a cultural destination and community gathering place.

I recommend visiting the colorful exhibit at the museum in Little Tokyo, and purchasing the new book Giant Robot: Thirty Years of Defining Asian American Pop Culture. This compilation is a testament to Giant Robot’s legacy and immense contributions to uplifting Asian American voices and talents over the past thirty years.

Japanese American National Museum
100 N Central Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012