Jo Iijima's design philosophy is a testament to the power of embracing one's unique perspective and letting go of conventional boundaries. His approach to design is a vibrant fusion of his diverse cultural experiences and a bold embrace of imperfection. With a background in Japan and a global perspective shaped by his time in various cities, Iijima's work is a captivating exploration of the interplay between the digital and the analog, the personal and the universal.
Iijima's journey into design began with a non-linear path. Starting with fan art and album covers, he gradually evolved into creating personal work that resonated deeply with him and his audience. This shift in focus marked a turning point, as he began to express his personality and emotions through his designs, finding joy and fulfillment in the process. This shift in focus marked a turning point, as he began to express his personality and emotions through his designs, finding joy and fulfillment in the process.
His design aesthetic is characterized by a bold and playful approach to typography and color. The use of chromatic Kanji lettering, acid-bright layers, and Riso-printed strawberries showcases his ability to create visually striking and memorable compositions. The slight registration drift in the Strawberry Riso Zine adds a sense of immediacy and texture, while the layered Japanese characters in Nazonazo create a dynamic and engaging visual dialogue. The HEA(R)T series, with its melting pink lettering, strikes a balance between heartfelt emotion and glitching aesthetics.
Iijima's design philosophy extends beyond aesthetics. He emphasizes the importance of exaggeration and surprise in his work, adding a spark of joy and a twist of unexpectedness. This approach is a reaction to the trend of smoothing out designs with AI, as he believes that graphic design needs to retain its rawness and aliveness to showcase the human element of creativity. By pushing the boundaries of what is expected, Iijima creates designs that leave a lasting impression and evoke new feelings in his audience.
Looking ahead, Iijima's design practice is likely to continue evolving. His interest in printed objects and the tactile nature of physical creations suggests a growing appreciation for the sense of imperfection that feels alive. His music and cultural projects will remain a central focus, and he will continue to explore new formats and mediums. As he puts it, design is not just a creation but a memory waiting to be discovered from the far future, and he embraces this idea with a sense of curiosity and openness.
