Kenji Yanobe Collaborates with Osaka University on Art-Game Project

A New Art-Game Collaboration: The Great Adventure of SHIP'S CAT

In an innovative fusion of contemporary art and gaming, renowned modern artist Kenji Yanobe has teamed up with students from Osaka University of Economics and Communication to create an exciting arcade-style shooting game titled The Great Adventure of SHIP'S CAT. This collaborative effort also involves partnerships with Kyoto University of Art and Soin University, showcasing how educational institutions can come together to push creative boundaries.

The game draws inspiration from Yanobe's striking sculpture, 'The Spaceship of SHIP'S CAT', which will serve as the game's arcade cabinet. Beginning April 25, 2026, the piece is part of a special exhibition called Our Room of Wonders: Disappear—Yasumura Takashi, Kenji Yanobe, and Miwa Yanagi at the Osaka Nakanoshima Museum of Art. Here, visitors can experience the game firsthand in a unique interactive format.

Key Aspects of the Project

1. Inter-University Collaboration: This project highlights collaboration across three universities, utilizing their respective specialties in programming, design, and sound to realize this innovative concept.
2. Transforming Art into a Game: Yanobe's artistic vision is brought to life through the work of pixel artist BAN8KU, who infuses the game with engaging 2D designs that elevate the original concept.
3. Experiential Art: This event allows audiences to become part of the artwork itself, transforming traditional passive observation into active engagement.

Overview of the Project

Osaka University of Economics and Communication continues its mission to explore new possibilities within gaming. The YANOKEN PROJECT aims to transform static art into dynamic gaming experiences. Beyond providing entertainment, it serves as a platform to propose 'playable art' within culturally rich spaces like museums.

The project was initiated by Yasuyuki Toyokawa of the Hotel Anteroom Kyoto, who partnered with producer Masahiko Murakami from Skeleton Crew Studio. Under Yanobe's supervision, Yoshitake Mori, an associate professor in the Digital Game Department at Osaka University, along with Satoshi Murakami from Kyoto University of Arts, handled game design, while Ryohei Takagi from Soin University took charge of sound direction.

Along with them, student developers contributed significantly, with BAN8KU responsible for the artwork and students from various disciplines—including programming, illustrations, animations, and sound—collaborating to bring the project to fruition. The programming efforts were spearheaded by students in Professor Mori's team.

Experienced Guidance

The project features contributions from various leaders in their respective fields:

- Director: Kenji Yanobe
- Art Work: BAN8KU (thePIXEL)
- Producer: Masahiko Murakami (Skeleton Crew Studio), Yasuyuki Toyokawa (Hotel Anteroom Kyoto)
- Game Design: Yoshitake Mori (Osaka University), Satoshi Murakami (Kyoto University of Arts)
- Sound Design: Ryohei Takagi (Soin University)

Exhibition Details

Event Name: Our Room of Wonders: Disappear
Dates: April 25 – July 20, 2026
Opening Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM)
Venue: 5th Floor Exhibition Room, Osaka Nakanoshima Museum of Art
Admission Fee: General ¥1900, Students ¥1300, Children ¥500
Official URL: Osaka Nakanoshima Museum

Game Demonstration Details
Event Name: Art Game Experience Event for SHIP’S CAT
Date: May 2 – May 6, 2026, 10 AM – 5 PM
Venue: Special Shop within 'Our Room of Wonders'
Free Entry: Admission requires a museum ticket.
Event URL: Event Information

Public Launch Event
Event Name: Public Launch Event for Art Game SHIP'S CAT
Date: May 2, 2026, 2 PM – 4 PM
Venue: First Floor Hall, Osaka Nakanoshima Museum of Art
Free Entry: Admission requires a museum ticket.
Event URL: Launch Details

About Osaka University of Economics and Communication

Name: Osaka University of Economics and Communication
Website: Official Website
Location: Neyagawa Campus, 572-8530 Osaka, Japan

With its commitment to involving students in real-world projects with professionals across industries, Osaka University continues to pave the way for unique opportunities that foster creativity and innovation.