#Japan #Tokyo #AXIS #Semba #Photographers

Unlocking Spaces: The 'Liberation of Space' Photo Exhibition

Overview
From October 2nd to 4th, 2026, the Spiral in Omotesando, Tokyo, will play host to the intriguing photo exhibition titled 'Liberation of Space.' This event, organized by Semba Co., Ltd., celebrates the release of the special November issue of the design magazine AXIS, featuring the 'SEMBA NEW STATEMENT: Liberation of Space'.

This exhibition showcases fresh perspectives on space as interpreted by six notable photographers: Rumi Ando, Rintaro Kanemoto, Yoko Kusano, Kenta Kobayashi, Shun Komiyama, and Kana Hamamoto, presented through their unique artistry. By exploring the essence of space through their works, the exhibition aims to question traditional notions and values associated with spatial design, inviting audiences to contemplate the future possibilities that space offers.

Context

As society confronts significant changes in values and environmental conditions, there’s an increasing demand for spaces that transcend traditional functions and uses. The AXIS special edition 'SEMBA NEW STATEMENT: Liberation of Space' revisits the essential value of space through non-conventional lenses, reflecting on the kind of spatial creations demanded by the future from a creative standpoint. This exhibition serves as an attempt to extend the thoughts and visions expressed within the pages of the magazine into a tangible experience within the space itself.

Through the works of the six featured photographers, this exhibition aims to delve into the significance of space itself and the potential it harbors for future value creation.

Exhibition Details

• - Exhibition Name: Liberation of Space
• - Dates: October 2nd (Friday) to October 4th (Sunday), 2026, from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM
• - Venue: Spiral Garden (Spiral 1F), 5-6-23 Minamiooyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
• - Admission: Free
• - Organizer: Semba Co., Ltd.

Featured Photographers

The exhibition features the work of six talented photographers, each contributing their artistic interpretation. Here’s a brief profile of each:

• - Rumi Ando: Born in Okayama in 1985, she graduated from Tokyo University of the Arts in 2010 and became involved in photography and retouching after joining the Amana Group in 2015.
• - Rintaro Kanemoto: A Hiroshima native born in 1998, Rintaro graduated from Tokyo School of Photography in 2020 and now captures a wide array of subjects across magazines, web content, and advertisements.
• - Yoko Kusano: Born in Fukushima in 1993 and a graduate of Kuwasawa Design School, Yoko won the Excellent Award at the 37th Photo New Century in 2014.
• - Kenta Kobayashi: Born in Kanagawa in 1992, he is well-known for his 'smudge' series, transforming photos into painterly strokes with image editing software and exploring the extension of photography across various media.
• - Shun Komiyama: Born in 1988 in Kanagawa, Shun focuses on recording the essence of reality without relying on digital manipulation, crafting a graphical world through photography.
• - Kana Hamamoto: Born in Kanagawa in 2000, Kana explores the 'memories' associated with people, objects, and places, employing a unique mixed media approach.

Book Information

The magazine issue corresponding to this exhibition is the special November edition of AXIS, published by Axis Co., Ltd., set to release on October 5th, 2026. This edition includes:

• - Original photographs by six photographers
• - Insights from five pivotal projects
• - A feature on Semba's creativity and innovations
• - Interviews with external partners
• - A discussion with the president of Semba

Title: SEMBA NEW STATEMENT: Liberation of Space
Publisher: Axis Co., Ltd.
Format: 104 pages / A4 size / Bilingual (Japanese & English)
Price: 1,300 yen (tax included)

About AXIS

Founded in 1981, design magazine AXIS has established itself as a leading platform for creative insights and innovative ideas in design, operating from its base in Roppongi, Tokyo. AXIS has built substantial trust and a strong network over 45 years, earning support from influential opinion leaders and the creative community.

About Semba

Semba Co., Ltd. upholds the corporate philosophy of being a 'Success Partner,' providing comprehensive support in creating various spaces such as commercial facilities, offices, education environments, and healthcare spaces. The company champions ethical design, advocating for a 'future-friendly space' vision, maintaining a commitment to sensitivity towards people, communities, and the environment.

Company Name: Semba Co., Ltd.
Headquarters: 1-2-3 Shibaura, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Stock Listing: Tokyo Stock Exchange Standard Market (Code: 6540)
Main Projects: Notable works include Wolfgang's Steakhouse Tenan, Mitsui Shopping Park, and Fukuoka Airport.

The 'Liberation of Space' exhibition promises to be an inspiring exploration of what space can signify in an evolving world, providing a platform for creative expression and insightful discourse.