A Japanese artist has been arrested for crowdfunding a project to make a kayak using a 3D image of her vagina, reports state.

Megumi Igarashi, who also goes by the name of Rokudenashiko, aimed to push societal norms by making the concept of vagina more "casual." The artists stated that female genitalia has become "obscene because it has been overly hidden."

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However, the 42-year-old apparently broke Japanese obscenity laws when she sent over 30 people 3D printer data of her vagina as a reward for supporting her project.

Rokudenashiko was arrested based on a Japanese law which makes it illegal to sell, distribute, or display "obscene objects."  

The artist also raised further ire by referring to the vagina as "manko" ("pussy"), while in Japanese culture it is common to simply use the phrase "asako" ("down there") when talking about the female body part.

This isn't the first time Rokudenashiko has employed her vagina as part of an art project. Previously, she created an art series using molds of her vagina, including two titled "Pussy Diorama" and "Pussy Lampshade."

The controversial artist wasn't arrested before she made her dream of owning her own kayak in the shape of her vagina come true. Ms. Rokudenashiko was able to raise enough funds to finish the project and took her kayak on its virgin voyage in the Tama River, between Tokyo and Kanagawa.

Upon her arrest, she was quoted as telling the police:

"I don't think this is obscene."

Currently, the artist is being held in Tokyo and no word has been released as to what punishment she could face. An online petition has been started in an attempt to help free her.

Due to the media attention surrounding the project, Rokudenashiko's provocative kayak is not only her largest work of art so far, but possibly her most popular.

Tagsvagina kayak, japanese vagina artist, japanese artist arrest, vagina kayak artist