GEISAI has now entered it's 12th year of existence and its 18th incarnation. This time, all work presented will be by artists of age 29 and under.

What is it that we seek from GEISAI and what should we take away from it? I'm sure that each of the exhibitors has their own answer to these questions. As the organizers, we approach each incarnation with a new theme and in recent years, that theme has increasingly become focused on the education of the younger exhibitors.

1. Art world etiquette
2. A sense of honor
3. Learning the rules

Without the three things above, an artist cannot survive in the art world. I truly believe that this is what defines those who achieve success.

Two years ago, I began actively pursuing projects with young artists; but with all of them, I ran into the same problems: selfishness, irresponsibility, and a lack of both guts and ambition.

In response, I have begun drilling them on the above three points.

If you have yet to achieve adulthood, you might be able to get by for a few years in Japan but abroad, no one will be there to pick you up when you fall, no matter what your potential as an artist.

For the jury, I have selected three people who are well suited to offering chances and advice to young people.

Takanori Aki, whose Good Smile Company has conquered the figure world of today.

New York artist KAWS, who emerged as part of the graffiti scene in the early 2000s and whose work is influenced by Japan's collectible merchandise culture.

Koichi Watari, second generation owner of the Watarium Museum, who helped me greatly around the time I made my debut.

These are the three jurors we have chosen.

All three have a strong sense of duty toward their work and others.

We look forward to seeing you at GEISAI#18

Chairman Takashi Murakami