#Japan #3D Printing #Tokyo #ExtraBold #Kazuto Imura

ExtraBold's Collaboration with Kazuto Imura

ExtraBold, a company based in Tokyo, has recently announced its collaboration with artist Kazuto Imura for the creation of a large-scale art installation titled "bulbocodium". This impressive sculpture boasts a height of 2,130.24 mm, a diameter of 2,547.19 mm, and weighs approximately 70 kg. Notably, the artwork is constructed using carbon-recycled materials and is set to be showcased during the ART X JAPAN CONTEXT event, held at the Tokyo Midtown Atrium on March 7-8, 2026.

What is ART X JAPAN CONTEXT?

ART X JAPAN CONTEXT is an initiative aimed at supporting new expressions by Japanese artists and expanding the possibilities of art within urban spaces. The project has garnered attention for its focus on reassessing the role of contemporary art in society, facilitated under the auspices of the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry, and organized by Abstract Engine. Imura was selected as one of the featured artists, while ExtraBold served as a technological partner, utilizing innovative digital manufacturing techniques and carbon-recycled materials to bring this large-scale 3D printed work to fruition.

Exhibition Details

• - Dates: March 7-8, 2026
• - Hours: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
• - Location: Tokyo Midtown Atrium (Galleria B1)
• - Admission: Free (No registration required)

For inquiries, contact: ART X JAPAN CONTEXT Office at [email protected].

Production Collaboration Overview

From the project's inception, ExtraBold's team has been deeply involved in the creation of the artwork, beginning with material selection and feasibility studies for the sculpture. Key steps included:
1. 3D scanning and data generation of the sculptural elements (physique).
2. 3D data design and optimization to realize complex structures.
3. Large-scale 3D printing using the FGF (Fused Granular Fabrication) technique.
4. Assembly and finishing of the sculpture.

The primary equipment used for the 3D printing was ExtraBold’s custom-developed large-format 3D printer, the "EXF-12," and the collaborative robot-based printer "REX-BUTLER." The FGF process enables high degrees of freedom in material selection, particularly suited for large-scale prints.

The Concept Behind "bulbocodium"

The theme of this artwork draws inspiration from the Greek mythological figure Narcissus. It explores concepts such as sologamy and autogamy, inviting the viewer to experience Narcissus's perspective through an installation that envelops the human form in a curved ring structure, featuring a continuous geometric pattern. The design fuses digitally crafted organic curves with structural lattices, symbolizing the intertwining of technology and artistry.

Environmentally Conscious Materials

For this sculpture, ExtraBold utilized a carbon-recycled material called "CR LIMEX," developed by TBM, a material member of BOLDGYM. This innovative substance is synthesized using CO₂ from industrial emissions and calcium-rich waste, aligning with carbon neutrality principles. By combining digital manufacturing with carbon-recycled materials, the project showcases the potential for sustainable art production.

Artist and Company Comments

Kazuto Imura expressed his excitement for the collaboration, stating, "I have previously focused on mirror themes, but this partnership with ExtraBold's engineers has allowed me to extend into new artistic expressions inspired by Narcissus. The communication throughout the process, from concept to 3D scanning and printing, facilitated a fresh approach for me to explore. I encourage everyone to see it!"

ExtraBold's CEO, Yuji Hara, emphasized the capabilities of large-scale 3D printing technology, saying, "This technology paves new avenues not just in manufacturing but also in fields like art and architecture. By merging digital data with carbon-recycled materials, we have demonstrated a sustainable model for large-scale creations. We aim to maintain our commitment to the 'Green Creative™' philosophy in our future projects."

About Kazuto Imura

Born in Kyoto in 1990 and a graduate of the Tokyo University of the Arts, Kazuto Imura's work frequently explores the relationship between humans and mirrors through multifaceted research across various fields, including optics, mythology, and archaeological perspectives.

About ExtraBold

ExtraBold, based in Toshima, Tokyo, is dedicated to promoting circular manufacturing in diverse sectors like art, architecture, and design through their advanced large pellet-style 3D printers. Their commitment to sustainability is at the heart of their operations, exemplifying what can be achieved through modern technology and recycled materials.

For more information about ExtraBold and their innovative printing technology, visit ExtraBold website.