Keywords for Japan's future, by Japan experts living in Japan. [12]Irregular
Mike Abelson
Looking toward 2020. And beyond. Where should Japan aim? What would be desirable? In this year, where the importance of diversity seems increasingly emphasized, I want to start by listening to diverse opinions.
Our featured guests are 15 individuals originally from overseas who now reside in Japan. From both an external and internal perspective on Japan, and through the professional eyes of their respective fields, they have expressed insightful and diverse keywords through the art of calligraphy.
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Delicate Japanese sweets crafted by artisans. Because they're handmade, they all look similar yet each is slightly different. That difference is precisely what makes them beautiful. That's what irregularity means. People strive for perfection, but irregularity, full of chance, creates depth and flavor. Below the characters, I drew my beloved sweet potato. Things made by nature are irregularity itself, right? Each has a different shape and taste. The sweetness even varies depending on which part you eat. Machine-made things can't achieve this. Our five senses adore irregularity. See? The texture of washi paper is wonderful. Enjoy irregularity. Try taking irregular actions yourself. Then, I think your life will become special, filled with wonderful discoveries.
About DENTSU SOKEN INC. Japan Studies Group
In 2020, we established a research team at DENTSU SOKEN INC. to explore Japan's appeal and strengths for the future. We aim to be a "network-based think tank," leveraging connections with experts across various fields domestically and internationally, as well as all resources within Dentsu Inc. With Dentsu Inc.'s unique approach and our team's ability to shape the future by reading the winds, we want to contribute to building Japan's future – a future where answers aren't easily found.
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Author
Mike Abelson
In 2000, Yuri Abelson and I founded the design office POSTALCO in Brooklyn, New York. We later relocated our base to Tokyo, where we handle a wide range of design projects including stationery, bags, and publications.