#Japan #Tokyo #DIGRAPH #CONTRAST #IN FOCUS

CODE TO GRAPHIC: A Fusion of Programming and Graphic Art

From May 3rd to May 11th, the innovative exhibition "CODE TO GRAPHIC" will take place at CONTRAST, a creative space managed by IN FOCUS in Yoyogi Uehara, Tokyo. This exhibition is the brainchild of the creative studio DIGRAPH, founded by designer Hiromasa Fukaji and programmer Junichiro Horikawa. The duo aims to bridge the gap between programming and graphic design, leveraging various programming techniques to create visually striking artworks.

The core theme of "CODE TO GRAPHIC" revolves around the process of using coding as a tool for graphic creation. Visitors can expect to witness a collection of graphic designs that embody the beauty and individuality that emerge from diverse programming languages and methodologies. A standout feature of the exhibition is the artistic approach known as "Plotter Drawing," which DIGRAPH uses to explore the boundaries between digital and physical expressions. This technique imbues each piece with a unique, dynamic quality that cannot be replicated through traditional digital displays or printed media.

In a nod to the pioneering days of computer art in Japan, the exhibition also pays tribute to the Computer Technique Group (CTG), a collective instrumental in shaping the field during the 1960s. Both CTG and DIGRAPH share a common philosophy of transcending the limitations between art and design through the use of computers. Notably, CTG utilized plotters in their work, similar to DIGRAPH's practices. As part of the exhibition, visitors will see new works inspired by CTG's iconic "Kennedy series," reflecting on the lasting influence of past creators and questioning DIGRAPH's position within the broader context of digital art.

DIGRAPH emerged in 2023, with its founders committed to exploring new forms of artistic expression through a dual focus on computational processes and hands-on experimentation. The studio employs mathematical approaches, alongside cutting-edge digital fabrication tools like plotters and 3D printers, to merge the digital with the physical. This approach enables them to develop innovative expressions and highlight the potential of digital artistry.

The studio has previously showcased its research through exhibitions like "NATURE / CODE / DRAWING" in Tokyo and Paris, as well as "We are Computational Craftsmen" in Tokyo. DIGRAPH has also launched collaborations with various brands, including the ceramic line "ComPotte," and has expanded its portfolio to include commissioned artworks for hotels and corporate identities.

Exhibition Details

• - Dates: May 3 (Sat) - May 11 (Sun) - Open daily
• - Hours: Weekdays 15:00 - 20:00 / Weekends 11:00 - 20:00
• - Admission: Free
• - Venue: CONTRAST, 1-49-4 Tomigaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
• - Nearest Stations: 1-minute walk from Yoyogi Koen Station (Chiyoda Line) Exit 1, 2-minute walk from Yoyogi Hachiman Station (Odakyu Line) South Exit

For more information about the exhibition and DIGRAPH, visit their official website and follow them on Instagram and Twitter.

About IN FOCUS

Founded in 2012, IN FOCUS is a digital branding studio based in Tokyo, recognized for its ability to fuse different digital mediums, such as web, video, graphics, and photography, into cohesive creative expressions. Since the launch of their creative studio CONTRAST in 2022, IN FOCUS has been dedicated to proposing new perspectives through collaborative efforts between directors, designers, programmers, producers, filmmakers, and writers. The studio was nominated for The Webby Awards in 2023 and received two Special Honorees, marking a significant achievement in their creative journey. In 2024, they plan to resume international operations with the launch of IN FOCUS NEW YORK following delays caused by the pandemic.

For further details about IN FOCUS, visit their official website.