What are the thoughts of designer Yoshikuni Inoue hidden in "Samurai Typography"? The interview article published in a pamphlet distributed in the past will now be published on the website.
〈Interviewer: Naotaka Sugiyama, Kaitai Shinsho Inc.〉
>>>Read Part 1
>>>Read Part 2
―――◆〈Part 3〉◆―――
Aiming for the overseas expansion of Samurai Typography
── How was the response to Samurai Typography?
When I shared prototypes on social media, I received positive feedback like "That's good," which made me happy. Furthermore, descendants of warlords such as Sanada Yukimura, Uesugi Kenshin, and Chōsokabe Motochika started supporting me. I presented framed graphics to them at the end of last year, and they were very pleased. Some even displayed them at the entrance of their offices. I was deeply moved, as it was an honor just to meet them.
── Please tell us about your future aspirations.
I would be delighted if Samurai Typography could serve as an opportunity for people to encounter warlords. I hope it sparks interest, making people think, "This typography is an interesting picture," leading them to "research more" or "want to visit places associated with this warlord." On the other hand, for those familiar with history, I want them to think, "So this is how it's done!"
To achieve this, we need to raise awareness both domestically and internationally. For Japan, I plan to feature Sengoku warlords associated with each prefecture. I believe this will also contribute to regional revitalization.
Currently, I want to create one for "Tachibana Muneshige," a Sengoku warlord from Kyushu. He also had a dramatic life, experiencing unfortunate times after being stripped of his daimyo status, but gradually building trust and eventually returning as a daimyo in Kyushu. I'm looking forward to visiting Kyushu to see Muneshige's armor.
Another person in high demand, "Date Masamune," will also be created. He is so popular that he needs no introduction. I haven't seen his actual armor, so I plan to visit Sendai to research it.
Furthermore, I want to expand overseas. In 2022, I was contacted by a Singaporean company, and when I sold T-shirts through live commerce, they were more popular than expected. Overseas, I will be showcasing Japanese typography, and I want to convey the beauty of "armor" and "Japanese language."
Samurai Typography is my life's work. I want to continue working on it until I die.
〈End〉