In the days before the concept of “design” took root in Japan, Yusaku Kamekura (1915-1997) was like an explorer delving into uncharted territory. In addition to the multitude of his most famous works – his Tokyo Olympics posters, Good Design symbol and NTT logomark, to name just a few – during his long career Mr. Kamekura continuously devoted himself to establishing and promoting the field of design through activities that included participation in the founding of the Japan Advertising Artists Club (JAAC), Nippon Design Center, Japan Graphic Designers Association (JAGDA), and the Good Design program. Today Yusaku Kamekura is widely recognized and hailed as one of the most important and influential figures within the history of graphic design in Japan.

To mark the centennial anniversary of Mr. Kamekura’s birth, this exhibition has been organized with the intent of shedding light on his achievements as a designer from two new perspectives: Mr. Kamekura’s abundant exchanges with many of the world’s most esteemed artists, and his committed devotion to editing “CREATION” magazine, one of his most cherished projects of his later years. The exhibition will feature numerous works, photos, letters and other materials never shown before, as well as works spanning from his debut as a designer to his well-known core body of work.

Through his exchanges with the great giants of design and other artistic fields, what did Mr. Kamekura feel, and what legacy did he bequeath us? We hope this exhibition dedicated to Yusaku Kamekura will provide a rare opportunity to get to know this man who so loved his involvement with design throughout his brilliant, long career.