Celebrating 40 Years of Seichi Suzuki: The Book Designer's Journey

This year marks a significant milestone for renowned graphic designer Seichi Suzuki, who has designed approximately 15,000 book covers throughout his illustrious career. To celebrate his 40th anniversary in the industry, a special exhibition titled 'Seichi Suzuki Bookstore' will be held at the BONUS TRACK GALLERY 1 in Shimokitazawa, from December 5th to December 14th.

In honor of this occasion, a special talk event will take place on December 12th at B&B bookstore, featuring playwright Kōkami Naoshi. Tickets for this event are now available for purchase!

Interestingly, Suzuki's journey began not in the world of books, but in theatre. While studying at Tsukuba University, he cultivated a relationship with Kōkami Naoshi, who was instrumental in leading the small theater boom of the 1980s. This connection allowed Suzuki to venture into design, creating posters for Kōkami's theatre troupe. Notably, the first book cover he designed was for Kōkami's own play collection, 'Asahi no Yō na Yūhi o Tsurete: Dai-ichi Gikyokushū'.

During the upcoming event, Kōkami will recount the early stories and experiences that contributed to Suzuki's rise as what many consider Japan's premier book designer. Attendees will have the rare opportunity to view various posters brought by Suzuki himself, prompting discussions that bridge the thematic elements of the displayed posters and theatrical works. This engaging format promises to be a treat not only for design enthusiasts but also for fans of Kōkami's influential theatre company, 'Daisan Butai'. We highly encourage anyone interested to attend!

As a special incentive to attendees, an exclusive campaign commemorating Suzuki's 40th anniversary will include the sale of limited posters from Daisan Butai (with quantities limited and no option to select specific designs) for those who register for the event. More details will be shared via email to confirmed participants. Additionally, tickets will be available that include a limited-edition book, 'Seichi Suzuki to Hon o Tsukuru' (published by Shogakukan and exclusive to B&B). This book is specially produced for the exhibition and will feature Suzuki's autograph.

Event Details

- Date: December 12, 2025
- Title: Kōkami Naoshi x Seichi Suzuki: The Beginning of Book Design - Episode Zero
- Venue: Shimokitazawa B&B bookstore (inside BONUS TRACK)
- Doors Open: 18:30 | Event Starts: 19:00

Ticket Information:

- In-Person Attendance (limited quantity, includes one drink): ¥2,750
- In-Person Attendance with Limited Book (limited quantity, includes one drink): ¥2,750 + Book 'Seichi Suzuki to Hon o Tsukuru' (a signed copy for ¥1,980) = ¥4,730
- Online Attendance: ¥1,650
- Online Attendance with Limited Book: ¥1,650 + Book 'Seichi Suzuki to Hon o Tsukuru' (for ¥1,980) = ¥3,680

Note: Books will be shipped post-event (free shipping included).
Be sure to enjoy this special event along with the opportunity to get your hands on a unique book that can only be found here.

Participating Guests

Kōkami Naoshi: A playwright, director, and film producer born in Ehime Prefecture in 1958. A Waseda University Law School alumnus, he founded the theatre company 'Daisan Butai' in 1981, gaining acclaim for multiple award-winning productions.

Seichi Suzuki: A graphic designer born in Hokkaido in 1962. After dropping out from Tsukuba University’s graduate program, he went freelance in 1985 and established Seichi Suzuki Design Office in 1992. He specializes in editorial design and contributes as a lecturer at various universities.

For further information on the 'Seichi Suzuki Bookstore' and related events, please check the special page on B&B’s site at here.

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