One of Tokyo’s favourite design festivals, Design Festa, is back for another edition.
If you haven’t been before, here’s what you should know: the bi-annual ‘freestyle International Art Event’ is open to all artists, both professional and non-professional from all over the world to exhibit their creative talent and is held at Tokyo Big Sight, the biggest event hall in Japan. You can stroll around between the booths and really, just have quite a lot of fun interacting with the art on show.
The only criteria for applicants is that they are original, as the organizers believe in the freedom of expression – however we did spot that idol/fan art and other copyrighted items are not permitted, so we must resist the urge to pay a tribute to AKB 48.
This two-day event is guaranteed to stimulate creative energy amongst and between all visitors and exhibitors: get your senses stimulated by all the talented artists, and chances are you won’t leave empty-handed. The site features two stages (outdoor and indoor) presenting live performances, and if all that art makes you hungry you can take your pick among 20 kinds of international cuisine in the cafe area. If you can’t make it to the event, Design Festa has a gallery where artists exhibit and sell their products all year round, and the best part is, it’s free for visitors.
When: May 18-19
Where: Tokyo Big Sight (see map)
How much: ¥1,000 for a day ticket, ¥1,800 for the weekend (¥800/¥1500 adv.)
