CLASKA, a Tokyo hip designer hotel and art space, set up a project determined to re-think the relationship western visitors have with Japanese culture. The final goal is to create a guidebook for creative visitors, underlining the outsider’s view of the city.
CLASKA invited fourteen well-known graphic designers from the U.K to conceive posters based on their experiences as foreign visitors in Tokyo. They were asked to present their personal interpretations of the city, using their trademark graphics. Some of the designers and studios were James Goggin, Daniel Eatock, Adam Hayes, Bibliotheque, OK-RM and Spin. This project is an important step in introducing UK graphic design in Tokyo.
The exhibition was held in CLASKA, in December 2008. The book published by the hotel will be on sale in Japan and the UK.
Wallpaper magazine wrote about "How very Tokyo" the following:
Graphic Design for Tourism
'How Very Tokyo' Reflects Foreign Views on the City
Trend Themes
1. Cross-cultural Design - Opportunity for graphic designers to explore and reinterpret foreign cultures through their design work.
2. Collaborative Design - Opportunity for hotels and art spaces to collaborate with graphic designers to create unique and engaging experiences for visitors.
3. Localized Design Guides - Opportunity to create guidebooks that capture the outsider's perspective and provide a fresh view on local cultures and destinations.
Industry Implications
1. Hospitality - Hotels can incorporate graphic design as a way to enhance the guest experience and differentiate themselves.
2. Art and Design - Art spaces and design studios can collaborate with graphic designers to create innovative exhibitions and projects.
3. Publishing - Opportunity for publishers to create guidebooks and publications that highlight the unique perspectives of foreign visitors in different cities.