Event/Workshop Report

The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon Celebration Party for Motoko Ishii

Motoko Ishii, President of Motoko Ishii Lighting Design Inc. and the inaugural representative director of the Japan International Association of Lighting Designers (IALDJ), was honored with the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon for her extensive contributions to the lighting design industry. To commemorate this prestigious occasion, the IALDJ  hosted a celebration party at LUKE, located in St. Luke’s Garden Tower in Tsukiji.

Attendees adhered to a   “luminous items” dress code and engaged in lively discussions about the future of the lighting industry with Ms. Ishii in a relaxed and casual atmosphere. The event began with smiles and cheers, as attendees and organizers, adorned in various colorful and innovative “light” designs, enjoyed the dance music.

Clad in an illuminated veil, Ms. Ishii made a glamorous entrance to enthusiastic applause. IALDJ  board member Reiko Chikada opened the event with a heartfelt speech, sharing an insightful story about Ms. Ishii. “Ms. Ishii once told me that design is like throwing a stone into a quiet pond. When you throw a stone close to you, the ripples come quickly, but the range is small. But if you throw the stone far away, the ripples will cover the entire pond. That, she said, is what design is about,” Chikada recounted. “Looking back, I realize Ms. Ishii already envisioned a design philosophy that would permeate society. I wish her continued success in all her future endeavors.”

Guests of honor included Mr. Tadao Kamei (Chairman, Nikken Sekkei, Ltd.) and Mr. Michio Koda (Deputy President and Chief Design Officer, Mitsubishi Jisho Design, Inc.), followed by a congratulatory speech from Mr. Hiroyasu Ando (Chairman, Tokyo International Film Festival; former Ambassador of Japan to Italy; former President, Japan Foundation). “I first met Ms. Ishii in 1978, where she was already a prominent figure in discussions on Japan’s future policies,” Mr. Ando said. “Ms. Ishii’s remarkable work is celebrated both domestically and internationally, significantly enhancing Japan’s global presence. Despite her gentle demeanor, she possesses a resolute spirit and unwavering commitment to her craft. Throughout her travels across Japan and the world, Ms. Ishii has remained dedicated to lighting design, and has become a person Japan can be proud of. I am confident she will continue to receive accolades worldwide.”

The celebration included a video message from Ms. Akari-Lisa Ishii (Principal, I.C.O.N.; Vice President, Association of French Lighting Designers [ACE]).

As the sun set, Ms. Ishii’s favorite champagne was served, and a grand toast led by Mr. Kuniyasu Shimaoka (Managing Director and Lighting Division General Manager, Electric Works Company, Panasonic Corporation) marked the start of an evening filled with live music and engaging conversations.

Ms. Ishii later appeared on stage in a stunning dress made of pure white lace, designed by IALD member Yuko Yamashita, receiving a resounding ovation from the attendees.

“MOTOKO’s Room,” a Q&A session with Ms. Ishii, which was a hit at ENLIGHTEN ASIA 2023 IN JAPAN, was reprised. Ms. Ishii thoughtfully answered various questions from the guests. “My theory is that of the 24 hours in a day, half, or 12 hours, is nighttime. We still have many frontiers to explore. I am looking forward to exploring many new frontiers with you,” she commented.

In the latter part of the celebration, a narration of “1965 – My Journey of Light” accompanied by a DJ mix energized the dance floor, with attendees immersing themselves in the light-filled ambiance. The event concluded with Ms. Ishii receiving a commemorative gift, the announcement of the “Best Dresser of Light” award winner, and a collective move to the terrace. There, guests took photos together, enjoying the night views of Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Gate Bridge, and the famous bridges along the Sumida River, all illuminated by Ms. Ishii’s designs.

Ms. Ishii has been a beacon in the industry for over fifty years, creating a significant ripple effect of light not only in Japan but globally, laying the foundation for contemporary lighting design. Her unwavering passion, tireless effort, and boundless curiosity continue to inspire. Once again, I am profoundly moved by Ms. Ishii’s excellence and extend my deepest respect for all she represents.

【Date】   May 21, 2024

【Venue】Restaurant LUKE, Tsukiji St. Luke’s Garden Tower, 47F

【Organizer】 Japan International Association of Lighting Designers

 

Text: Mayumi Ryuzono