Stories

Yoshinori Tanaka (1978), founder of artist collective EXCALIBUR , was born and raised in Motoise, a part of Japan situated close to the sea. Shintoism has its origins there and is rooted deeper and more profoundly than elsewhere in Japan. 

Although a lot of Japanese would say that Shintoism is part of them, not many grow up surrounded by its history such as Yoshinori did.

Hidden in the swirling back streets of one of Tokyo’s lively neighbourhoods one can find a printing studio that makes dreams come true.

Takeru Amano (1977) is about 10 years old when he visits an exhibition of Keith Haring in a department store in Tokyo. What he witnesses makes a lasting impression. Haring uses the walls of the store to paint on. So instead of using paper, the young Takeru decides to spray-paint some flowers on the walls of the local swimming pool.

It marks the beginning of his colourful career.

 Shimane prefecture is a magical place full of shrines and with a solid base of ancient legends. Situated in the south of Japan, somewhat above Hiroshima, it is the place where Daijiro Hama (1984) had his yōkai (monsters) fuelled childhood and where he learned about legends that would stick with him forever.

The best ideas arise at night and such was the case with Julien Sato. Working in Tokyo’s dazzling nightlife from a young age, he initiated events where both his passion for art and music could meet...