Interview with Naoya Katagami

I have always been drawn to creative activities since I was young. This passion naturally led me to pursue a career in design. After gaining professional experience at an advertising agency, I decided to establish myself as an independent designer. Since then, I have continued to build my practice, driven by the desire to create meaningful and visually engaging work.

When designing, my top priorities are to express the essence of peace and culture, to create visuals that are simple yet powerful, and to maintain a process that starts with hand-drawn sketches. I believe that design should go beyond decoration to carry meaning and evoke reflection. I often begin my projects with drawings and notes, exploring ideas by hand before moving into digital tools. This approach allows me to keep the concept authentic and human, while later refining it with technology for precision and balance.

When I design, I feel a deep sense of excitement and curiosity, especially in the early stages when the first ideas begin to take shape. The process of sketching and gradually turning abstract thoughts into visual form brings me joy and energy. What fulfills me most, however, is seeing the final work resonate with meaning — when the message I wanted to convey is clearly communicated and connects with people. Design gives me happiness because it is not only a form of self-expression but also a bridge that allows me to share values and emotions with others.

My background has shaped me as a designer in several meaningful ways. Working at an advertising production company early in my career helped me build strong skills in client communication, presentation, and project management. These non-design abilities have been essential in bringing ideas to life and working effectively with others. In addition to design, I also pursue photography and writing, which broaden my perspective and add depth to my creative work. This combination of professional experience and diverse creative practices has greatly influenced my journey as a designer and continues to guide my approach today.

In the future, I want to focus on creating designs that are more essential and meaningful. My goal is not just to produce visually appealing work, but to design projects that touch the core of human experience and resonate on a deeper level.

I am still growing as a designer myself, so I cannot give advice from above, but I believe it is important not to lose sight of what you truly value in your creative journey. There will always be challenges and moments when things don’t go as planned, but those experiences also help us grow. I hope we can all continue learning and enjoying the process together.

Rather than saying I am truly successful, I feel I am still in the process of growing and challenging myself. What I try to keep in mind is to think simply, focus on the essence, and stay true to the core message I want to convey. While new tools and technologies are important, the foundation of design is always about how it resonates with people. Keeping this perspective can add depth and persuasiveness to any creative work.

I value the routine I follow before starting work each day. After waking up, I begin with yoga to reset my mind and body, followed by breakfast, strength training, and even some practice with the katana to work up a sweat. After a refreshing shower, I sit down to begin my design work. Of course, everyone has their own approach, but I believe that moving the body and resetting the mind is important for any profession — and especially essential for creative work like design.

I do keep an eye on design trends, but I don’t let them dictate my work. Trends can offer inspiration and fresh perspectives, yet I believe that a design should hold deeper, timeless meaning rather than simply reflecting what is fashionable at the moment. I prefer to focus on creating works that resonate on a fundamental, human level. Inspiration for me often comes from observing nature, cultural heritage, and everyday life experiences rather than purely from trend reports.

I believe trends are necessary to some extent, but I do not pay too much attention to them. What I value more is whether a design has true essence and meaning. For me, creating something with depth and authenticity is far more important than following what is currently fashionable.

For me, a design feels ready when its message and essence are clearly conveyed without adding or removing anything. Of course, there is always room for improvement, but I believe there is a natural point where the work speaks for itself. When I reach that balance—where the design feels honest and complete—I know it is time to move on to the next project.

One of my most significant works is the “Hiroshima Peace Song Exhibition” poster. This project is very special to me because it carries a message of peace from Hiroshima to the world. I used the English lyrics of the “Hiroshima Peace Song” and created a typography design that transforms into a waterfall, symbolizing how a single drop of water can grow into a stream and eventually reach the world.

The process was both challenging and rewarding—I visited waterfalls to study the flow of water and was inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s sketches of water movement. What makes this work my biggest achievement is not only its visual impact but also its ability to inspire reflection on peace and humanity. Knowing that the poster has touched people and invited them to think deeply about peace gives me the greatest satisfaction.

One of my greatest inspirations is Leonardo da Vinci. He was not only a designer but also a scientist, artist, and visionary thinker. His deep observation of nature and his ability to connect art with science are qualities I greatly admire. For example, his sketches of water flow directly inspired me in my “Hiroshima Peace Song” design.

If I could speak with one historical designer, it would definitely be da Vinci. I would love to hear how he approached the act of observing nature so deeply and how he managed to balance creativity with scientific curiosity. His multidisciplinary approach continues to remind me that design is not just about aesthetics but about understanding the world more profoundly.

I live and work in Hiroshima, a city of water and peace, which greatly shapes my design philosophy. My daily routine of yoga, strength training, and KATANA practice helps me reset and approach projects with clarity. Traveling to the Czech Republic was also an inspiring experience, as its architecture and culture gave me fresh perspectives. I believe good design connects people across cultures and carries meaning beyond aesthetics.

I usually work independently, but I collaborate with trusted partners when a project requires it. What matters most to me is sincerity, flexibility, and mutual respect. My business philosophy is rooted in capturing the essence of things — creating design that is not only visually appealing but also meaningful. I believe good designers need strong observation skills, patience, and the ability to empathize with people.

I contribute to society by participating in annual peace-themed poster exhibitions in Hiroshima, where I use design as a medium to share messages that go beyond commercial purpose. This work is not for profit but rather to inspire reflection and dialogue about peace. I believe design has the power to move people emotionally, and I want to use that power to give something back to the community.

Participating in the A’ Design Award has been a very positive and inspiring experience.
The three main benefits I gained were:
1.The opportunity to share my design with a global audience.
2.Increased exposure through press features and publications.
3.The chance to learn from the works of other outstanding international designers.

It also gave me an opportunity to reflect on my own work more objectively, motivating me to improve the quality of my designs. Being recognized as Designer of the Day was a true honor, and it gave me a great sense of encouragement and confidence.

I enjoyed drawing illustrations and manga, and I also loved designing flyers for events with friends—before I knew it, it had turned into my profession.

Rather than aiming specifically to become a designer, I just kept doing creative things that I loved, and eventually found myself working under the title of graphic designer.

I always aim to create designs that capture the essence of things, and I hope to refine that further moving forward.
I also work with photography using 35mm and 8×10 black-and-white film, and I would like to incorporate that form of expression more into my design work.
I believe film photography captures the true essence of a moment, imprinting it directly onto the film.

I’m still in the process of growing myself. I’ve developed through seeing many things and meeting many different people.

I believe the definition differs from person to person, but to me, the distinction lies in whether the work captures some essence of truth or creates meaningful synergy.

Not just something trendy or fashionable, but a design that reflects the essence and synergy of what the creator is truly trying to express.

Everything has its own vibration and rhythm. A good season or moment gives birth to good design, and in turn, good design creates a new season. I believe there is a mutual relationship like that.

I would like to create designs that go beyond expectations for people who seek deeper essence.

I live in Japan and have had the opportunity to work with major domestic companies, but I hope to expand my work to a broader range of international projects.

To approach each project sincerely without becoming arrogant.

Leonardo da Vinci, Buckminster Fuller, Hokusai, Mucha, and Emil Ruder.

The Tura Table by Mai Wahdan (#171874) really spoke to me — I could easily see it fitting into my own home.

I was drawn to the simplicity of the “Tura Table” by Mai Wahdan (#171874). It felt like something I would genuinely want to use in my own home.

I was drawn to the simplicity of the “Tura Table” by Mai Wahdan (#171874). It felt like something I would genuinely want to use in my own home.

I’ve always pursued what I felt drawn to, though many of those interests ended up as hobbies or temporary phases.
Even if I hadn’t become a designer, I believe I would still be doing something creative.

Design, to me, is something that connects people with things and experiences—it bridges the gap between ideas and those who encounter them.

Everyone I’ve met, every experience I’ve had, and every place I’ve been has helped me reach where I am today. More recently, I’ve received great support from the people at JAGDA.

Everyone I’ve met, every experience I’ve had, and every place I’ve been has helped me reach where I am today. More recently, I’ve received great support from the people at JAGDA.

Of course, not just in design, but in doing anything meaningful, one encounters various difficulties—but I believe that’s simply part of the journey.

As long as the essence of the work is properly conveyed, I believe designers are free to present it however they choose—so long as they maintain basic courtesy and order.

I’m involved in various types of work, but moving forward, I want to create more essential, fundamental designs.

A quote by Emil Ruder always stays with me:
“There are people—sharp-tongued people—who say that the most beautiful surface is a surface with nothing on it. This is not a totally mistaken view. When we are faced with a white surface there are two things we can do: we can ennoble it or we can desecrate it.”
This thought is always in my heart and deeply influences my goals as a designer.

Continued evolution.

To better interweave things and people.

Designing for a shop that is entering a new phase.

The Hiroshima Peace Song Exhibition #164704.
Ahead of the 80th anniversary of the end of the war, I created the design for a poster exhibition aimed at conveying peace to people around the world through the power of design. The project received a great response.

I hope to see an increase in more essential and meaningful design.

The polarization between what we call “design” and easily generated outputs by AI will rapidly accelerate, and what we refer to as true design will become more refined and sharpened.

It depends on the project, but even after it’s completed, I keep questioning whether it’s truly the best it can be until the deadline.

I usually start with rough sketches and notes.

The expression of more essential truths.

We should create good design regardless of trends.

We should create good design regardless of trends.

I use Mac and Adobe software for my work.

They are like the colors in a drawing — elements that give life and depth to the line work.

They are like the colors in a drawing — elements that give life and depth to the line work.

The essence.

I usually create alone, so I’m not sure.

The books and designs of pioneers have greatly influenced me. More recently, the members of JAGDA have also had a significant impact.

Leonardo da Vinci’s manuscripts.

By reading many books written by great designers and masters before me.

Leonardo da Vinci.

I feel truly honored.

I like monochrome.

At JAGDA Hiroshima, we’ve been involved in a project called the Hiroshima Appeals Poster Series. It’s a design poster initiative that began in 1983. This year, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the war, we created a postcard set that compiles all the posters, and I was in charge of the art direction.

While I was working with the design data from past contributors to create the set, I experienced an overwhelming feeling—goosebumps all over. It felt as though I was being watched by the designers of past generations. It was an eerie yet deeply moving moment.

When a design is completed, or when someone is genuinely pleased with the work—that’s when the day feels truly great. Receiving recognition through awards or having the work embraced by many people through media coverage also gives me a strong sense of fulfillment and motivation.

Since it was a time when information wasn’t as readily available as it is now, I didn’t have a clear idea of becoming a designer.
However, I was definitely a child with an unusually strong curiosity for culture and all things creative.

I don’t know what will happen.
Perhaps something other than humanity will be at the center of evolution.
But what I do know is that I try to live each moment fully and strive to grow little by little every day.

I hope to continue evolving as a designer.
It would mean a lot if you kept following my journey from here on.

I’m based in Hiroshima, Japan, and I operate my own independent design studio.

Design is something that connects people with things and events.

Designs that contain essence and depth.

Hiroshima Peace Song Exhibition #164704 — This is a poster design I created for an exhibition held in Hiroshima ahead of the 80th anniversary of the end of the war. I believe it represents the deepest essence I could express through design at this point in my journey.

It was promotional advertising materials for a Japanese company.

When the image I have in mind starts to take shape.

Whether it expresses the essence of the subject.

After sketching with various thoughts and ideas, I try to empty my mind before fully engaging in the design process.

Each time something I envisioned takes shape, I feel a deep sense of attachment and affection toward it.

The essence that emerges after a process of trial and error—revisiting, adjusting, struggling—is what makes a design truly successful.

The essence that emerges after a process of trial and error—revisiting, adjusting, struggling—is what makes a design truly successful.

To connect people with things and matters in a better, more meaningful way.

It will continue to be refined and sharpened.

In July 2025, I participated in a group poster exhibition organized by JAGDA Hiroshima. For my next exhibition, I am hoping to hold a solo show.

I read many books by predecessors.

I always aim to express the essence of things.
That’s why my approach is to strip away unnecessary elements from the initial sketches, leaving only what truly matters.

I live in Hiroshima, Japan. Naturally, living in a city deeply connected to the atomic bombing and the legacy of war and peace gives me many opportunities to reflect on those themes.
Through my involvement with JAGDA Hiroshima, including projects like the Hiroshima Appeals Poster series and various other initiatives, I feel a strong influence from this cultural and historical context on my design work.

I have been working on the design of promotional materials such as advertisements for many years.

I have been working on the design of promotional materials such as advertisements for many years.

I usually start by jotting down ideas and necessary elements on paper, creating rough sketches. Once the concept is somewhat solidified, I move on to working digitally on my Mac.
For photography, I work with black-and-white film, developing it myself in the darkroom.

My favorite design items at home are:
•My collection of Rotring pens
•Wacom pen display tablet
•MacBook Air
•Leica camera and lenses
•Black-and-white film

I start my day by doing yoga on the balcony while soaking up the sun. Then I eat some pasta, do a training session, take a shower, and begin my work. At night, I wind down with some maintenance time in my massage chair.

I, too, am still in the process of lifelong growth. Let’s continue growing by seeing as much as we can and experiencing as much as possible.

It’s a profession where you can imagine and create. If you’re freelance, you also have the freedom to manage your own time. But with that freedom comes full personal responsibility.

Whether the essence is being expressed.

Whether the essence is being expressed.

Mac, Adobe software, notebooks, and pens.

If a design seems like it will take a long time, I plan ahead accordingly.

It varies depending on the design. However, I always ask myself whether it’s truly finished or if there’s still something more I can do within the scheduled time.

What the design is expressing.

Every single day.

Major retail companies in Japan, among others.

Work that expresses the essence of things.

I also shoot black and white photography with an 8×10 Deardorff, and I would like to incorporate it more into my creative work.

I mostly develop my designs by myself.

Since 1983, JAGDA Hiroshima has been engaged in the Hiroshima Appeals Poster project. This year, marking 80 years since the end of the war, we created a postcard set featuring the entire collection of these posters. I served as the art director for the project. The set will go on sale this year, and I truly hope people will take a moment to experience it.

I would appreciate it if you could contact me via email.
mail@createasensation.jp

I will continue to pursue and create more essential and meaningful designs. Thank you all for your continued support.