Celebrating Top Illustrators: Limited Edition Totes from The Choice and ROOTOTE!

Limited Edition Totes Collaboration

This year marks the 17th collaboration between the illustrious illustration contest 'The Choice' and ROOTOTE, a brand well-known for its tote bags. Since its inception, 'The Choice' has been a gateway for numerous celebrated illustrators, spotlighting artists who are on their way to professional success. This year, they unveil a limited collection of tote bags featuring the winning illustrations selected for the 2025 edition of the competition.

Two stunning designs are highlighted in this collaboration: the TALL tote, a classic vertical canvas style, and the TUBE tote, featuring a unique interior design that divides the space into two sections. Each bag allows for the showcased winning illustrations to shine through with their distinct personalities. It’s a perfect marriage of form and function, giving art lovers a chance to carry a piece of creativity with them.

Order Details

Starting June 1, 2026, from 12 PM JST, pre-orders for these limited edition totes can be made through two dedicated venues: the ROOTOTE GALLERY located in Futako-Tamagawa and ROOTOTE GALLERY_EDITION. Ensuring exclusivity, these exact designs will not be available in regular retail stores.

The ROOTOTE GALLERY in Futako-Tamagawa is located at 2-23-1 Tamagawa, Setagaya-ku, designed to deliver a unique shopping experience for art enthusiasts. Be mindful that the sales period may be adjusted, so it’s wise to check before making any plans to visit.

For those outside the immediate surrounding area, ROOTOTE GALLERY_EDITION will offer the bags online until July 22, 2026, giving everyone a chance to own a piece of this exquisite collection.

Featured Illustrators and Awards

This year's edition has brought forth an impressive lineup of talent. The Grand Prize was awarded to Ai Shinomiya for her piece titled 'Taking a Breather', where she showcases her experimental approach by utilizing various techniques and materials. The judges were particularly enamored by her innovative use of translucent washi paper and the depth it brings to the piece.

Other notable comic works include:

- Natsuki Tawatari with 'Inside the Cave', who experiences the blending of dreamlike realms in her illustrations.
- Sae Sato with 'Summer Villa', who aims to depict the beautiful harmony between people and landscapes.
- Haruna Makigaku with 'Place Like the Moon', who echoes the feel of familiar yet surreal everyday life as interpreted through her artistic lens.

Selecting the Judges

This year's panel included esteemed professionals such as Akane Sakakawa (book designer), Kei Koizumi (illustrator and essayist), Gemi (illustrator), and Hideyuki Saito (graphic designer). Each juror shared their insights and unique perspectives while evaluating the submitted works, contributing to the diverse selection process.

Final Thoughts

The intersection of art and everyday usability through these tote bags not only celebrates emerging artistry but also emphasizes the importance of creativity in daily life. With pricing set at 4,400 yen (tax included) for each bag, these items present an opportunity to own a slice of contemporary art. Remember, orders will come with a brief waiting period for shipping, so plan accordingly.

Don't miss this opportunity to celebrate creativity and functionality! Stay tuned for more updates to follow from both 'The Choice' and ROOTOTE in the coming months.

For more information about the collab and to place your orders, visit: