Exhibition of Tadanori Yokoo's Record Jackets
FTF Co., Ltd., based in Shibuya, Tokyo, is hosting a unique exhibition and sale featuring record and CD jackets designed by the renowned Japanese artist Tadanori Yokoo. This event will take place at Daikanyama Tsutaya Bookstore from September 15 to 30, 2025, showcasing an extensive collection that highlights Yokoo's artistic impact in both the music and art worlds.
Yokoo's artwork goes far beyond mere aesthetics; each jacket reflects the spirit of its time, capturing the essence of cultural movements through its vibrant graphics and profound imagery. His artistic journey began in the 1960s with bold psychedelic patterns, evolved through the intricate collage work of the 1970s, and transitioned into expressionistic paintings in the 1980s and beyond. This exhibition offers a rare opportunity to appreciate over 100 of Yokoo's iconic designs, including seminal works like
Lotus: The Legend, a record that encapsulated the spirit of the legendary Latin rock band Santana during their first concert in Japan.
Featured Highlights
- - Lotus: The Legend (1974): This iconic 22-sided jacket showcases the essence of Santana’s music and Yokoo's artistic vision, marking a significant moment in Japanese music history.
- - Opera Yukio Tadanori (1969): A brilliant collaboration between Yokoo and modern composer Kei Ichi Yanagita, this album presents an experimental blend of music and visual artistry.
- - Hibotan Baku (1969): This captivating work by Minoru Muraoka features a unique take on traditional Japanese themes through the medium of shakuhachi performance.
Event Details
The exhibition will be open daily from 11 AM to 10 PM, and entry is free. Due to expected popularity, there may be limitations on admissions during peak times. Notably, on September 24 and 25, the event will pause for a private viewing. Visitors will have the chance to purchase any of the showcased works, with items being made available post-event.
A New Perspective on Music Art
Face Records has long championed the artistry inherent in record jackets, seeing them as a confluence of music and art. Yokoo’s work stands as a testament to how visual arts can transcend mere packaging, embodying the zeitgeist and societal atmospheres of their respective eras.
As part of the event, a special talk titled 'The Allure of Tadanori Yokoo and Record Jackets' is scheduled for September 18, featuring prominent figures from the art and music industries. This engaging conversation will explore the deep connections between Yokoo’s art and the records he influenced.
About Face Records
Face Records is dedicated to the exploration of vinyl’s artistic contributions, bridging the gap between sound and visual art. The store not only sells records but also promotes the culture surrounding record collecting, art appreciation, and the continued influence of legendary designers like Yokoo.
This exhibition represents a unique convergence of art, culture, and history, inviting both art lovers and music aficionados to experience the genius of Tadanori Yokoo through his striking record jackets. We hope you join us in what promises to be a captivating journey through sound and sight.