A New Message from Hiroshima: Kazufumi Nagai's Peace Poster Unveiled

July 17, 2023, marks a significant milestone in the ongoing effort to promote peace through art. Kazufumi Nagai, a prominent designer and member of JAGDA, has unveiled the 2026 edition of the peace poster series titled 'Hiroshima Appeals.' This initiative, which began in 1983, seeks to transcend language and communicate the heart of Hiroshima to the world, calling for peace in the context of global conflict.

The series, now in its thirtieth year, has always featured one volunteer designer each year from JAGDA (Japan Graphic Designers Association) to create a compelling visual reminder of the atrocities of war. Kazufumi Nagai's artwork, which has been revealed at Hiroshima City Hall, embodies the profound reflection necessary in remembering both the past and the present in our pursuit of peace.

Details of the Artwork and Availability

The poster, priced at 1,100 yen (tax included), can be purchased from various locations, including:

- Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum (Museum Shop)
- Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Rest House
- Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art
- JAGDA Tokyo office (located within the Tokyo Midtown Design Hub)
- Online through the JAGDA Online Shop

In addition to sales, the poster will be prominently displayed at different exhibitions throughout the summer:

Exhibition Schedule

- June 26 – August 6: 'Graphic Design in Japan 2026' Exhibition at Tokyo Midtown Design Hub, showcasing selected works from the yearly graphic design yearbook, including Nagai's current poster alongside the first-ever 'Hiroshima Appeals' poster by designer Yusaku Kamekura (1983).
- July 26 – 31: The Hiroshima Peace Poster Exhibition 2026 'Pieces for Peace' at the former Hiroshima Bank branch, featuring a collection of past 'Hiroshima Appeals' posters alongside artworks from JAGDA members and design students.
- July 27 – August 9: The poster's design will be displayed at 26 bus stops across Hiroshima City in collaboration with MC2 Co., Ltd. as part of the public awareness campaign.

Kazufumi Nagai's Inspirational Vision

In his comments regarding the poster's creation, Kazufumi Nagai reflects on the essence of what he aims to convey:

'In a flash of lightning, what do you see? And now, what must we not turn away from?'

These poignant words encapsulate the importance of remembrance and the commitment to uphold peace worldwide.

About the Artist

Kazufumi Nagai is not only an art director but also a graduate of Tama Art University. After starting his career at Hakuhodo, one of Japan's leading advertising firms, he founded HAKUHODO DESIGN in 2003, focusing on branding through design. His work has garnered numerous prestigious awards, including the Creator of the Year, ADC Grand Prize, and the Mainichi Design Prize. Furthermore, he has authored books such as 'Branding through Hakuhodo Design' and 'Design Management in the Future.'

A Special Collectible

In celebration of the 80th anniversary since the end of World War II, a complete collection of all 29 previous posters was created and is now available as a postcard set, which includes the newly released 2026 edition. This edition is also priced at 2,500 yen (tax included).

For more about 'Hiroshima Appeals,' you can visit the official JAGDA website here or check out regional activities at the JAGDA Hiroshima site here.
Feel the message, hold the future, and join in the commemoration of peace from Hiroshima to the world.