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From Tokyo to Toronto: Finding My Creative Voice in a New World

  • Writer: Sakura Yamaoka
    Sakura Yamaoka
  • Jan 20
  • 3 min read

Updated: Jan 20

In Japan, I spent 7 years as a Creative Producer and Multidisciplinary Designer. Over time, I found myself increasingly leading international projects and collaborating with creators from across the globe. > Through these cross-cultural interactions, I received an inspiring piece of advice that changed my path: the world is vast, and there is so much more to explore within my own potential on a global stage. That was the spark. I chose Toronto for its incredible diversity, knowing that here, my perspective would be challenged and expanded in ways I could never have imagined.



Bridging Japanese Craft with Local Creativity


  1. Maziart Collaboration


This interactive exhibition explored the intersection of digital media and physical space through immersive installations. As a Creative Producer, I supported the project's visual and auditory identity, from logo branding and AI-assisted entrance video production to optimizing sound loops for the exhibition space. Working within a multicultural team, I translated abstract concepts into a universal visual language, "Visualizing the Invisible." This project was a major learning curve in adapting to the Canadian creative flow—embracing a fluid, collaborative environment where diverse perspectives merge, a refreshing contrast to the structured processes I experienced in Japan.


SPOOOOKY! was a themed, family-friendly Halloween experience that transformed an indoor space into a playful, interactive world. I focused on post-production and on-site testing to ensure a seamless visitor journey. My role involved re-editing entrance video content and providing strategic feedback on audience flow and visual pacing during live testing sessions. By refining assets from a visitor’s perspective, I helped elevate the final quality of the installation. This experience solidified my confidence that my background in experiential design is universally effective and resonates deeply with the Canadian audience.



This project featured a mesmerizing digital installation inspired by flowers blooming in the dark, showcased at a high-profile gala. I took full ownership of handling on-site videography, sound selection, and final editing. My challenge was to capture the specific atmosphere and human interactions that defined the work. This taught me the importance of having a clear directorial vision at the filming stage, ensuring every shot serves a specific storytelling purpose to create a high-impact promotional piece.


"OkoshiBumi" is a self-produced project aimed at reimagining my father’s traditional Japanese paper craft for the Canadian lifestyle. As the Marketing & Creative Director, I led the end-to-end branding and localization strategy, including managing a featured booth at Japan Festival Canada. By adapting the presentation of this traditional art to fit local aesthetics, I proved that blending "Japanese Tradition" with "Local Needs" creates a powerful Unique Selling Point (USP). This project strengthened my confidence as a producer who can successfully bridge cultures through design.



Ready for the Next Creative Challenge


Through these projects, I’ve confirmed one thing: my passion for creating immersive experiences is universal. Now, I am ready to bring my 7 years of Tokyo expertise and my new Toronto insights to a larger stage.


I am currently seeking new opportunities in Experience Design, Creative Production, and Spatial Storytelling. Whether it's an immersive installation, any scale event, or a brand campaign, I am eager to collaborate on projects that push the boundaries of art and design.


If you are looking for a creative partner who bridges cultures and visualizes the invisible, let’s connect!



 
 
 

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