Design Caravan
Until now, people, products, money and information tended to converge on big cities in the prevailing Japanese social structure. But as we face an era of low development, a new social awareness that seeks steady harmony between production and consumption has begun to spread, in contrast to a society of excessive production. The time has come to seek diverse and innovative possibilities for economy and culture in regional areas, rather instead of only in the big cities. By suggesting a choice of "futures" that will help build regional areas from the design point of view, we can contribute to activating local economies and culture. Creativity born in an environment different from that of metropolalises can bring forth new design concepts. With this as the springboard, the "JAGDA Design Caravan" started moving in 1997.
This project is intended for regional managers, local autonomies, persons engaged in community vitalization throughout Japan, and JAGDA members to share themes, discuss them from an equal position, and find specific solutions in terms of design. These seeds of design scattered across the country hopefully will bear fruit in the 21st Century.
"Design Caravan 1997 Oita"
What answers can derive from design having tourism as its theme? How can the latent power of design be applied to stimulate regional economies? Participants discussed how to vitalize local districts, not only from the aspect of tourism but from many standpoints.
"Design Caravan 1998 Niigata", "Design Caravan 1999 Gifu"
Aiming to highlight the appeal of regional products through design, JAGDA members voluntarily restyled packages of local goods. The project turned out to be a presentation not limited to new package designs; it ranged from conceiving new package names to innovative sales promotion. Some of these products have become favored sales items.