Called Bandee Sculptee La Planete Des Samourais, the small sculptures are by Japanese artist Natsusaka Shin-ichiro, who is trained in oil painting.

But a passion for anime and manga spurred him to turn his two-dimensional heroes into 3-D form. And then he decided he also wanted to write a story about his sculptures.

The works are on show at the Japan Media Arts Festival In Singapore 2008, a showcase of award-winning new media art, animation, manga and entertainment that takes a closer look at how Japanese culture has evolved.

The event at 8Q sam in Queen Street showcases cutting-edge artworks together with familiar pop culture icons such as Princess Mononoke from the world of anime and manga. Visitors can also go to an interactive section and try their hand at the Nintendo Wii, which allows them to sweat it out in the comfort of their home by playing a game of tennis, baseball or even golf.

Read the full story in Tuesday's edition of The Straits Times Life!