Manga artist and anime director Katsuhiro Otomo—the visionary behind masterpieces like "Domu," "Akira," and "Steamboy"—has consistently delivered iconic works that remain legendary among fans. Decades later, his influence is still massive, even sparking frequent collaborations in the fashion and streetwear scene.
Now, Tokyo Metro's Hibiya Line Ginza Station is home to a brand-new, massive public art installation titled "Procession Spin." Otomo himself drew the original artwork and supervised its creation. The piece was officially unveiled on the 15th and will be a permanent fixture in the station.
The concept behind "Procession Spin" explores the "flow of art from the Jomon period through to the modern era and even into the future." This colossal ceramic relief, standing 2.4 meters tall and 7 meters wide, brings Otomo's original drawings to life. Crafted by artisans specializing in public art, it masterfully condenses the diverse art forms humanity has cultivated throughout history, showcasing them in a single, evolving, and interwoven visual narrative.
(You can dive deeper into the design concept on the Japan Traffic Culture Association website.)
Reflecting on the creation process, Katsuhiro Otomo confessed, "This piece really took an incredible amount of time; it might even be the hardest project I've ever worked on." However, he also expressed his joy and fulfillment in creating public art that transcends the traditional museum setting, placing it directly within the city for more people to experience up close.
He concluded with a heartfelt message to the public: "Ultimately, the most important thing is that everyone enjoys this artwork. If you love it, that brings me the greatest happiness. Please cherish this piece."
As an exciting new initiative to promote culture and art within public transit spaces, "Procession Spin" will remain a permanent installation at Ginza Station. This means daily commuters and shoppers alike can naturally encounter art as part of their everyday lives.
So, if you ever find yourself in Tokyo, make sure to pilgrimage to Ginza Station and check out Otomo's incredible new artwork!
via： 日本交通文化協會