Artistry Unfolded: A Canvas of Imagination at Moleskine Harajuku
Tokyo, Japan – The annual “Moleskine Art Competition with Nihon University College of Art” once again brought a vibrant spectrum of student creativity to the forefront. This enduring partnership between Moleskine Japan and the prestigious Nihon University College of Art continues to champion emerging talent, culminating in an eagerly anticipated exhibition of winning works at the Moleskine Harajuku store from January 15 to February 26, 2025.
This year’s competition, themed “Unleash your Genius,” invited students from various departments to transform the iconic Moleskine notebook into a personal canvas. Over three months, participants delved into their inner worlds, expressing their unique sensibilities and profound thoughts. The notebooks became intimate spaces for introspection, allowing each student to refine their creative vision and develop a truly individual style, echoing Moleskine’s core philosophy of nurturing inherent potential and sparking innovation.
The judging panel comprised faculty members from Nihon University College of Art and Moleskine staff. Adding a layer of esteemed expertise were special judges: designer Norio Nakamura and illustrator Kana Suzuki, both distinguished alumni of the university and prominent figures in the creative industry. Their discerning eyes evaluated the diverse submissions, ultimately selecting 23 winning pieces. Among these, the works of 13 top-ranking artists will be featured in the upcoming exhibition.
This project stands as a testament to Moleskine’s unwavering commitment to the belief, shared with the Moleskine Foundation, that “creativity changes the world.” By providing a platform for self-expression, Moleskine consistently supports students in their journey of creative exploration and personal growth.
Journey Through Imagination: Featured Works
The exhibition promises a visual feast, showcasing the diverse interpretations of the “Unleash your Genius” theme. Visitors will encounter a range of artistic expressions, from serene landscapes to vibrant culinary adventures, each meticulously captured within the pages of a Moleskine notebook.
For instance, Shiho Kaizu’s award-winning piece blends a lush, green landscape with a whimsical character, evoking a sense of tranquil wonder. Koharu Shibata’s work, on the other hand, delights with detailed illustrations of Japanese cuisine, specifically her “first-ever Gyukatsu” experience, bringing a taste of everyday joy to the viewer.
Adding another dimension, Mizuha Tajima’s entry features intricate abstract geometric patterns, demonstrating a keen eye for design and composition. Meanwhile, Rena Tonaki transports viewers to the serene beauty of Okinawa with her travelogue-style illustrations of Taketomi Island and Seifa Utaki, offering a glimpse into her personal journeys.
One of the judges expressed, “The sheer variety and depth of expression showcased by these students is truly inspiring. It reminds us that a simple notebook can become a powerful vessel for boundless creativity.”
Exhibition Details
The winning works will be displayed in rotating groups, allowing visitors to experience a fresh selection of art throughout the exhibition period.
Exhibition Schedule:
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Group 1: January 15 (Thu) – 21 (Wed), 2025
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Group 2: January 23 (Tue) – 30 (Tue), 2025
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Group 3: February 1 (Thu) – 8 (Thu), 2025
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Group 4: February 10 (Tue) – 17 (Tue), 2025
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Group 5: February 19 (Thu) – 26 (Thu), 2025
Location:
Moleskine Harajuku Store
Tokyu Plaza Harajuku Harakado 1F, 6-31-21 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0001
Moleskine: A Legacy of Creativity
Since its inception in 1997, Moleskine has been the modern-day torchbearer of the anonymous black notebook once cherished by legends like Vincent van Gogh and Pablo Picasso. Today, it has evolved into a comprehensive lifestyle brand, offering a range of notebooks, diaries, bags, and digital tools designed to support the creative professionals of our time. Moleskine’s global presence, with over 50 stores worldwide, underscores its mission to encourage individuals to “unleash their genius on paper” while embracing the advantages of the digital age.
This annual competition not only celebrates individual student achievements but also highlights the enduring power of analogue creation in an increasingly digital world. It serves as a reminder that the simple act of putting pen to paper can unlock profound insights and foster the next generation of creative minds, potentially influencing global art and lifestyle trends for years to come. For more information about Moleskine, please visit https://www.moleskine.co.jp/.
