Satsuki Shibuya: Ever since I can remember, I’ve always been intrigued & inspired by everyday moments like hearing the different sounds created as leaves rustle when the wind blows or the shapes that shadows create as the sun peeks through the windows. I feel that inspiration is always surrounding us.

TT:  The theme of this year’s TYPO is Contrast. Can you give us an example of projects in your portfolio that contrast with one another? Or a project that contrasts with itself?
SS: The topic which I’ll be sharing at TYPO is, in itself, a contrast to how I learned to approach business, but I’ll keep mum about it so that I don’t spoil the surprise. I do, though, feel that contrast is a big component of all the work that I create, whether visual or something else. Although I’ve been trained professionally as a musician and graphic designer, it doesn’t stop me from constantly exploring contrasting elements, whether it is through materials, methods, philosophies, concepts or cultures. I am quite curious and intrigued at how contrast creates new possibilities.

TT:  What other speakers at TYPO San Francisco are you most looking forward to?
SS: Although I am interested in what all the speakers will be sharing as their backgrounds are so diverse and giddy about hearing design giants Erik Spiekermann & Armin Vit speak, I have to admit that I’ve had girl crushes on Marian Bantjes, Keetra Dixon, Rena Tom & Faythe Levine for quite sometime now.

Satsuki Shibuya

Born and raised in the tree-filled foothills of Los Angeles to a French chef father and adventure-loving mother, Satsuki’s escapades thus far have included studying music at the University of Southern California and graphic design at Otis College of Art and Design, pursuing a career as a singer/songwriter, delving into hand processes such as pattern design and sewing, launching a design studio, as well as raising a dog that loves treats and naps a little too much. Her recent pursuits involve activities such as creating one-of-a-kind art/objects, consulting, food experimentation, visual curations, paper creations, and special edition collaborations.

Speaker page

TT: What is your favorite thing to do in San Francisco?
SS: Walk & enjoy the architecture, people & liveliness that make San Francisco such an incredible city

TT: What are currently your favorite interesting/beautiful publications, books, movies and/or links?
SS: This is such a hard question as I am a hoarder of publications & links, but some that come to mind are: photographer Ye Rin Mok’s portraits, Eefje de Coninck’s project, Freunde von Freunden interviews/photographs, Japanese art + culture magazine OZ , music by Aspidistrafly and Chocolat & Akito. You can find some of my current muses here.

TT: What does “contrast” mean to you?
SS:  Contrast is where ideas, philosophies and experiences come together to open doors for new creations.

Get your ticket to see Satsuki and all of our other excellent speakers here.