Takashi Kono. ggg Books 63

Published by Ginza Graphic Gallery. 2003

Accompanying an exhibition held in December 2003 about Takashi Kono (1906 - 1999). 64pp.

In 1983 Takashi Kono became the first Japanese to be selected Royal Designer for Industry (RDI) in the UK.

'Shaken by the arrival of free and wild American creative power, at that time, in the world of graphic design what was imported was in fashion. For Takashi Kono, an Edo craftsman at heart, who wanted to re-create Japanese shapes and colors from chaotic commercial art, it was a natural creative posture to take. It is easy to understand how his natural sensibility made his resolution firm. He is unparalleled among graphic designers of his day. A clear "Japan original" can be found in the works created by Takashi Kono who had the essence of good Japanese tradition in his blood. As a graphic designer, I am proud to have been able to feel the same breezes as Takashi Kono and contemplate similar times.’  Shigeo Fukuda