Interview with Katsuya Arai

Vateau is a team of about ten members who have expertise in graphic design. The members came from a company called DBS.

For me, design means to communicate language through a visual medium.

I like designs that are conceptual and have a feeling of narrative. In terms of visual qualities, I like designs that are elaborate and lively.

I like designs that are conceptual and have a feeling of narrative. In terms of visual qualities, I like designs that are elaborate and lively.

The editorial design for the Japanese edition of Harper’s Bazaar.

Paper (rough.)

When I get a feeling of typography.

I focus on making sure the design has a strong narrative. The concept should be central throughout the design process.

I find designing really fun!

I develop a fondness for it as if it is my child.

It has to have a strong narrative. The concept must be central throughout the design process. Designers must also place themselves in the position of the end user.

Does it have a strong narrative? Are there any elements that detract from the concept? Has the designer placed themselves in the position of the end user?

To enhance functionality. To direct tone and manner.

I think in all types of media there will be more weight placed on social designs that target complex problems faced by society.

I am planning an exhibition in 2015.

I get inspiration when I go to art galleries and bookshops, but inspiration also comes to from things like every day scenery.

For both methods and expression, I try to maintain a good balance between analogue and digital.

I frequently visit places such Kyoto where you can feel the history of Japan – and yes these historical sites do influence my work.

Basically it’s a give-and-take relationship. I respect the company for providing me a place where I can develop my potential further.

A relationship of mutual respect.

First of all, make sure you have grasped the essence of the matter and ensure that there is a strong narrative. Then establish the concept and ensure it remains the central part throughout the process.

Books, pens, chairs, lights, and cushions (textile)

Wake up, play with the kids, leave for work, do work, return home, free time/ communicate with family, sleep.

Start by imitating, and then gradually establish your own identity.

On the positive side, the design field is getting larger and there are limitless possibilities for making a social contribution. As for the negative side, design work is often misunderstood as simply papering over the cracks.

The conflict between subjectivity and objectivity. Currently, I aim for a ratio of 3:7, which makes me arty enough without becoming too egotistical.

Power of discernment for capturing the essence of the matter and the skill to convey it fully.

Mac illustrator.

I carry out the tasks I need to do for the day in 30 minute timeslots. Also, I generally plan ahead.

It depends on the job, but the chain of processes from orientation to printing can last from one day to one year.

What I think about input and output.

Branding. Achieving a strong narrative – the thing I place most importance on. Sticking to the concept throughout. Putting myself in the position of the end user. Achieving a design that covers all these points.

The catalog for the movie Hagetaka. It all comes down to the techniques, but I learnt so many things about lettering.

Branding. Having a strong narrative – the thing I place most importance on. Sticking to the concept throughout. Putting myself in the position of the end user. Achieving a design that achieve all these things.

I hope to be an art director who will ascertain the state of branding ten years in the future and twenty years in the future and provide something better.

Working in a team. It is exciting to see all the team members’ particular talents being utilized.

A CD jacket design. Sometimes it’s exciting to listen to do the music and let it inspire your artwork.

info@vateau.com