From Tokyo to Toronto: Finding My Creative Voice in a New World
- 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
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.
1-2. SPOOOOKY!
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.
1-3. Nocturnal Bloom
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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