The Inauguration of Prime Minister Sanae Takichi's Mural in Aoyama, Tokyo

On October 29, 2025, a remarkable mural honoring Japan's first female Prime Minister, Sanae Takichi, was unveiled at the Tokyo Mural Square, located in the bustling Aoyama district. This project, executed by the mural art company OVER ALLs, highlights a significant milestone in Japan's political history and showcases the power of art in capturing moments of societal transformation.

Aiming for Change Through Art

The mural, titled "GLASS SUPRA," depicts Prime Minister Takichi with shards of glass cascading above her head, symbolizing the moment when she, as the first woman to hold the position, challenges the invisible barriers often referred to as the "glass ceiling." This art piece not only serves as a tribute to her leadership but also reflects the societal shifts that have allowed for more inclusive representation in politics.

Located prominently at the intersection in Aoyama, the Tokyo Mural Square was designed to serve as a visual media platform, akin to New York's Times Square. It plans to feature murals that dive into contemporary subjects and leaders every month, fostering a dialogue between art and current events. The aim is to address pressing social issues and bring them to the forefront through striking visual narratives.

Artistic Collaboration and Vision

The mastermind behind this initiative is Gakuto Akazawa, CEO of OVER ALLs, supported by main artist Yuki Yamamoto, the champion of "ART BATTLE JAPAN 2018." Their collaborative efforts include extensive research and interviews to draw out deeper narratives, ensuring that each mural resonates with the stories it aims to tell. From illuminating the past to envisioning the future, their work showcases faces and stories of resilience, such as in the well-known "FUTABA Art District" mural series focusing on the victims of the Fukushima disaster.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, OVER ALLs has already earmarked additional projects featuring notable personalities, such as President Donald Trump and manga artist Akira Toriyama. The next major update for the murals is planned for early November 2025, promising to deliver even more compelling narratives.

This unveiling is a powerful reminder of the intersection between art and social change. By immortalizing an influential figure like Prime Minister Takichi within a public space, OVER ALLs invites passersby to engage with the themes of empowerment and progress. The ongoing dialogue fostered through these murals challenges both artists and the public to think critically about representation and the societal hurdles that still exist.

With media appearances on shows like "情熱大陸" (Passion Time) and "news zero," and initiatives that span across Japan, the work done by OVER ALLs not only transforms public spaces but also elevates the discourse on representation in modern society.

Conclusion

As the vibrant mural of Sanae Takichi graces the Tokyo streets, it stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration. It encourages individuals to dream big and strive for equality, highlighting that the battle for representation is ongoing. Through their captivating art, OVER ALLs continues to weave narratives that are as thought-provoking as they are beautiful, pushing boundaries and inspiring future generations.

For more information on their work, visit OVER ALLs or check out their latest updates on Instagram at @overalls_art.