#Japan #Tokyo #Sanritsu #Cardboard Art #Art Contest

Embrace Creativity with the Sanritsu Cardboard Art Contest

Cardboard, a material that’s often overlooked, is taking center stage in a unique competition that encourages both art and sustainability. The renowned Sanritsu Corporation, headquartered in the Minato district of Tokyo, is launching the Sanritsu Cardboard Art Contest. This contest aims to inspire participants to create imaginative art and crafts using recycled cardboard, promoting awareness of the potential this humble material holds.

Contest Details

The Sanritsu Cardboard Art Contest is an invitation for everyone - individuals and groups alike - to unleash their creativity. Participants can submit as many entries as they wish, as long as the creations are primarily made from used cardboard. This year, with the emphasis on recyclable materials, the contest not only welcomes visually striking art pieces but also practical items, whimsical crafts, and innovative designs that could evolve beyond the initial concept.

The competition is an excellent opportunity for students in elementary and junior high schools, especially with a special award category that offers up to 100 QUO cards worth 1,000 yen for young contestants. Thus, it’s a perfect theme for summer vacation projects, allowing kids to learn about recycling while exploring their artistic talents.

Key Dates and Submission Details

The submission period runs from June 1, 2025, to September 5, 2025. Interested participants can apply through the official website Sanritsu Art Contest, where they will need to fill out the required information and upload photographs of their creations. After the first judging round in early October, an additional evaluation based on the physical works will take place in mid-November. The winners will be announced in mid-December, coinciding with Cardboard Art Day.

The judging panel will include experienced employees from Sanritsu, alongside guest judge Fuyuki Shimazu, a well-known artist recognized for his sculptural works made from discarded cardboard. Shimazu will provide insights based on professional perspectives, discussing the infinite possibilities of everyday materials with a creative twist.

A Call for Sustainable Craftsmanship

Through this contest, Sanritsu hopes to draw attention to cardboard as a reusable resource, encouraging participants to think about how they can add value and create unique pieces from simple materials. The initiative promotes not only creativity but also sustainability, aiming to inspire a generation to look beyond traditional art supplies.

The Guest Judge: Fuyuki Shimazu

Fuyuki Shimazu, an artist born in 1987, graduated from Tama Art University and transitioned from a career in advertising to become a renowned artist. His journey into cardboard art began in 2009 while he crafted a wallet from leftover cardboard at home. His creativity culminated in the documentary film “Traveling Cardboard”, which premiered at the SXSW festival and has since garnered acclaim across various international film festivals. Shimazu is respected for his unique approach, capturing the essence of repurposing and upcycling in his projects.

As a recently appointed part-time lecturer at Yokohama University of Art, Shimazu continues to inspire both students and aspiring artists with his innovative designs and approach to sustainability in art.

About Sanritsu Corporation

Founded on March 27, 1948, and listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange with stock code 9366, Sanritsu has established itself in the packaging and transportation industry. With a current workforce of 428 employees, their commitment extends beyond simply protecting goods; they focus on selecting eco-friendly materials and minimizing waste throughout the supply chain. For more information, visit their website at Sanritsu Corporation.

In conclusion, the Sanritsu Cardboard Art Contest represents an exciting opportunity for artists and crafters to transform ordinary cardboard into extraordinary creations, while also promoting sustainable practices. Join in, and you might just find yourself among the winners this December!