We designed a logo that can be made by hand, using scissors and paper cutters, to create “kamiwaza”, which is the title of the award. This is very much in line with the concept of the award.

As for the trophy which goes to the winner, we designed a card-shaped one using only simple techniques to bring out the best in paper, because we thought it better to keep things simple rather than decorative and profound.

The winner probably likes to use his/her hands, so we thought the trophy should be usable, instead of just being displayed on the shelf. We applied slits to thick cards that are the same size as playing cards, giving the winner flexibility to freely reposition and stack the cards.

We imprinted the title of the award using the traditional technique of “zogan”, or damascening, which has been used in Japan over the years when making katana swords. The trophy truly represents the concept of the award, which is free ideas and techniques.

A card-shaped trophy, made with paper that is thick and comfortable to touch.

The colors and shapes of each award is different, making it very impressive when they are placed next to each other. In the exhibition space, the trophies were placed next to the winner’s works, serving as an information sign for visitors.

The trophy allows the winners to enjoy themselves when assembling the cards themselves in various shapes. The cards express the feel of paper, one of the key concepts of this award, and the letters in zogan inscription express how interesting words are.