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KONNICHIWA!
A newsletter from Oki Sato, general producer.
News on the Japan Pavilion’s progress, and his thoughts for the day.
Exhibition
Whoosh...
Whoosh...
“What is the length on the tail of the light?”
“It’s 600mm!”
“Could you try stretching it to 700mm?”
“Sure. Incoming 700mm!”
(Wow! It’s really now stretched by 100mm...!)
“Can you soften the outline around the head of the light more?”
“Absolutely. Softer outline incoming!”
(It’s significantly softer now!)
“Can you slow down the movement of the light midway, more syrupy?”
“Syrupy?”
“Yeah, syrupy.”
(...oh?)
Endless adjustments to the shape and movement of the light continue. I truly admire the dedication of the staff who toiled tirelessly, working day and night to prepare for today’s testing. Thank you very much!
Exhibition
Quest for the Perfect Lighting Fixtures.
Today, we’re on a quest for the perfect lighting fixtures to make our exhibition rooms pop in the Japan Pavilion. The specific criteria, including size, brightness, warmth, and the softness of light contours, are being meticulously determined for each space.
We find ourselves pondering over two distinct lighting scenarios: Is it preferable to have strong light illuminating a dark-colored wall, or would a subtler glow on a light-colored wall be more fitting?
Additionally, we contemplate the warmth factor. Is it more inviting to have warm-colored light grace a cold-colored wall, or does the juxtaposition of cold-colored light against a warm-colored wall create a more harmonious ambiance?
As I delve into these considerations, contemplating the interplay of light and space, my thoughts gradually become as elusive as the mist settling over a tranquil landscape.
Architecture
The Site and Mockups Are Impressive and All, But...
Brrr, it’s chilly!
Too cold!!!
Architecture
“Grand Roof (Ring)”
Directly in front of the Japan Pavilion stands the iconic symbol of Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai – the “Grand Roof (Ring)”! Its sheer enormity is awe-inspiring! Above all, it’s intensely intimidating!
I can’t shake off the imagery of “Wall Maria” from a certain beloved manga. Unfortunately, our Japan Pavilion finds itself positioned on the exterior of this colossal ring, almost like a predestined target for the titans.
This and That
Stepping into a Cab at Shin-Osaka Station...
“Please take me to the Expo Osaka site on Yumeshima.”
“What?”
“To the Expo site, please.”
“Expo?”
“Yes.”
“The Expo isn’t open yet.”
“Yes, I know that, but I need to go.”
“I’m saying the Expo hasn’t started yet.”
Conversely, if the Expo had already commenced, we’d be in a bind. After three rounds of this exchange, I finally moved forward and reached the site. The current view reveals a vague outline of the Japan Pavilion, or maybe not.
It’s hard to articulate, but the foundation seems oddly charming. This might be the first time in my life that I’ve found a foundation to be cute. Perhaps I’m feeling a bit fatigued these days...
Thoughts
Fourth Issue of Monthly JP Pavilion
I’ve always had a sensitive stomach. If there were a school for having a weak stomach, I’d be an elite, skipping grades and graduating early. I “graduated” from fried food in my early 20s and from yakiniku in my late 20s. Now, I can confidently say that even bananas and yogurt can give me diarrhea.
I’ve been taking probiotics because I can’t continue like this. Although I’ve seen some improvement, the stress of remembering to take them daily is starting to feel like it’s worsening my intestinal health.
Amid all this, the fourth issue of Monthly JP pavilion has arrived. Imagining that the microorganisms I’m diligently ingesting are connected to the origin of life across the urban landscape, the universe, and through time and space slightly eases the stress of my morning probiotic routine.
This and That
Meeting for the Uniforms for the Attendants.
Today, we’re thrilled to discuss the uniforms for the attendants who will be guiding visitors through the Japan Pavilion. This is our fourth meeting with fashion designer Yuya Nakata, and we’re close to finalizing the details. We’re focusing on ease of use and comfort, using 100% polyester fabric and enhancing recyclability by minimizing buttons and zippers. The uniforms are designed to be worn by anyone and can be styled in various combinations, making them versatile and inclusive. We’ll share more exciting features once the designs are complete!
There were over 2,500 applicants for the 270 attendant positions available! It's incredibly humbling and exciting to see so much interest in these roles.
We hope the attendants will love the uniforms as much as we do.
A big thank you to Mr. Nakata for his ongoing support!
Thoughts
Sixth Issue of Monthly JP Pavilion
Without a doubt, the standout feature of this month’s Monthly JP Pavilion is the Hello! Choose Your Favorite “Algae × Hello Kitty Encyclopedia”, where Hello Kitty transforms into 32 unique types of algae.
Collaborating with Sanrio to design each character, we discovered something remarkable: no matter the shape of the algae, the end result is always irresistibly cute. Whether it’s the raft-like “Bacillaria” or the slightly grotesque “Sea grapes,” once they’re paired with Hello Kitty, they somehow transform into something undeniably adorable.
That’s the magic of Hello Kitty—the ultimate master of making anything and everything cute.
For the record, my personal favorite is “Gut weed,” which exudes some serious reggae vibes!
Exhibition
Bringing “Algae x Hello Kitty” to Life!
Even when we’ve previewed the designs using a 3D printer, the impression of the shape can change dramatically when scaled to its actual size.
Today’s agenda: a review session for the “Algae x Hello Kitty” exhibition objects.
The white models are still in the shape-checking phase. We run our hands over the smooth surfaces, ensuring that the curves connect naturally.
Next comes the stage where we test several painted versions to finalize the colors and the level of gloss. If the finish is too matte, it can feel heavy and dull, but too much gloss can cause distracting reflections under the spotlight.
One of the most critical aspects is the color and gloss of Hello Kitty’s eyes. We test them over and over again, seeking the most vibrant and expressive look. (Yes, believe it or not, she really does have an expression—if you look closely!)
New
Exhibition
Creating the Scene: Projection Testing in Full Swing
Once again, we’ve constructed an entire exhibition room inside a large warehouse to test video projections. Grids are projected onto the floor and walls during the process, but with so many people involved, everyone inevitably ends up covered in grids—quite a funny sight!
We carefully examine how overlapping projections blend and check for distortions in hard-to-reach areas. Based on this, we adjust the content to avoid or minimize these “trouble spots.”
There’s a particular character set to zoom around the space freely. If you notice them making especially flashy moves, it’s probably because they’re working hard to divert your attention from something tricky. Please, give them a kind smile in return!