As the Osaka Expo draws the world’s attention to Osaka, the city is poised to add an additional attraction. Between May 28 and June 24, Osaka Art & Design 2025 (OAD2025) will run parallel to the Expo, transforming the city’s urban space into a public art museum.
The event, which brings together local Japanese shops and companies, sees more than 60 venues across the city’s neighborhoods host more than 600 creators and brands from Japan and around the world. You can browse the full guide on their website but below are a few of our highlights!
Sayaka Miyata – The New Museum of Wonder: The Gene of Curiosity
Inspired by Ernst Haeckel’s illustrated books, as well as flora and fauna depicted on fabrics from diverse times and places, contemporary artist Sayaka Miyata (previously) portrays a world at the intersection of natural science and art, visualizing the pursuit of the mysteries of life through the technique of embroidery. Together with sign maker Midori Hirota, the pair present an immersive installation connecting Osaka Umeda Twin Towers North to the Hankyu Department Store.
Yutaka Ikehara – Fragments
A solo exhibition by artist Ikehara Yuta, who collages watercolors, photos, and textures to create works based on themes of rebirth and reincarnation. He depicts a world where animals, plants, manmade objects and noise mix together as a metaphor evoking the natural world and human society. His works are on view at the Abeno Harukas Tower Building 11F Art Gallery.
Shota Matsui – “relite” (rewrite/relight)
Rather than creating objects by using and combining stones, Shota Matsui focuses on maximizing the charm of the stone itself. Inspired by the culture of suiseki, stones that are often displayed on alcoves along with hanging scrolls and bonsai, the artist deliberately elevates the stones, usually found at the feet, to eye level by floating them in the air or hanging them on a wall. Matsui’s exhibition is on display at the W Hotel Osaka.
Hiromi Ikeda – PAPER WA PRODUCTS
Graphic designer Hiromi Ikeda is showcasing her new brand of paper flower vases inspired by the harmonious form of the circle. With multiple parts all made from paper, the colorful vases are endlessly customizable. They’re on view at the AP Inogate Osaka (11th floor).
