Reviving History Through Design: Hajime Tsushima's "LIFE"

Golden A' Design Award Winner Merges Tradition and Modernity

At the heart of Tsushima's design is a deep respect for history and tradition. The project was commissioned by a Hiroshima-based company with a century-long history, which tragically lost about 50 members and its factory to the atomic bombing in 1945. The factory, now a recognized bombing site, continues to produce gold leaf wallpaper, a traditional Japanese craft. The poster, prominently displayed in the factory, serves as a powerful reminder of the preciousness of life and the resilience of the human spirit.

Tsushima's design inspiration came from the sea, believed to be the birthplace of life. The poster's typography, which spells out "life" in Japanese, is reminiscent of waves, a motif often found in traditional Japanese paintings. This fusion of cultural symbolism and modern design techniques resulted in a unique and impactful piece of art.

The poster was created using Illustrator, with meticulous attention to the thickness of each line to achieve the desired effect. The black print stands out clearly, thanks to the use of offset printing, a technique known for its high-quality output. The poster's dimensions are 728mm in width and 1030mm in height.

Despite the technical and creative challenges, Tsushima remained steadfast in his belief that a single poster could change the world. The design indeed stops viewers in their tracks, prompting them to reflect on the fragility and value of life. The poster is not just a piece of art; it is a peace poster, a silent plea for the cessation of wars and the preservation of life.

The "LIFE" poster is a testament to Tsushima's design philosophy and his ability to convey powerful messages through his work. It is a reminder of the horrors of war, the resilience of the human spirit, and the enduring value of life. It is a design that speaks to the heart, transcending language and cultural barriers to deliver its universal message.