Masunaga Optical Celebrates 121st Anniversary and 'MASUNAGA1905 Yaesu Store' Opening with Artist Kenta Kobayashi Talk Event

Avex Creator Agency Co., Ltd. held an opening talk event titled 'Craftsmanship Updating Perspectives' at the newly opened 'MASUNAGA1905 Yaesu Store' to celebrate the second installment of the 'MASUNAGA1905 meets ARTISTS' project, developed by the art platform 'MEET YOUR ART' in collaboration with Masunaga Optical, which reached its 121st anniversary this June.

The event featured artist Kenta Kobayashi, Masunaga Optical Co., Ltd. Representative Director and President Sotaro Masunaga, and Avex Creator Agency Co., Ltd. Representative Director and President Shinsuke Kato, who presides over 'MEET YOUR ART.' They discussed their philosophies on manufacturing in their respective fields of eyewear and art.

Masunaga Optical emphasized that the underlying philosophy of the craftsmanship inherited over 120 years is 'to be useful to the region and society.' He also touched upon the company's strength in integrated in-house production, handling everything from design to final assembly.

Kenta Kobayashi described his creative process as 'a sense of deconstructing a landscape and then reconstructing it like a painting.' He also highlighted the importance of creativity in an age of advancing efficiency, noting that value lies in detours that may seem meaningless.

Regarding this project, Mr. Masunaga explained that they are utilizing art as a 'means to convey the philosophy and stance behind the product.' Mr. Kato stated that collaboration with artists is a process that allows brands to rediscover their essence in ways that traditional research and marketing cannot reach.

The project will continue to explore the possibilities of sharing perspectives between companies and artists.