Tokyo welcomes the best of the best in the world
Almost 8,500 delegates eagerly assembled under Tokyo’s blue skies in December for SIGGRAPH Asia 2024. Sally Trelford joined them to witness cutting-edge advancements in computer graphics and interactive technologies
“SIGGRAPH has been very important in my life,” said Professor Takeo Igarashi, SIGGRAPH Asia 2024 Conference Chair and Professor at The University of Tokyo, at the Opening Ceremony in the Japanese capital. “And I hope this time in Tokyo is key for you.”
‘Curious Minds’ was the theme of the event, aimed at inspiring attendees through presentations, demonstrations and interaction in a field that combines art, technology and science. With so much that’s new in the world of computer graphics and interactive technologies, it’s a field that truly pushes creative boundaries and fosters an innovative spirit.
“Discover the best of the best in the world. Explore unfamiliar programmes. Talk to people. Make connections.”
Close to 700 speakers across a variety of fields discussed the latest industry developments and future of the industry.
A particularly fascinating session was held by keynote speaker Yoshiyuki Miyamae, Design Director at A-POC ABLE ISSEY MIYAKE. “There’s a beautiful synergy between technologies and we learn a lot from older industries,” he said, before explaining how the development of technology in the textile industry - from looms and punch cards to weave complex patterns - formed the basis of computer technology and the development of programmable machines. He concluded with a spectacular live demonstration of innovative clothing creation.
All about networking
There was a palpable buzz around the light-filled Tokyo International Forum as excited delegates mingled.
Vonetta Berry, a Motion Graphics & Visual Affects student from Houston County College, at the event as a Student Volunteer, said: “It’s brilliant for networking face-to-face. Industry professionals take the time to sit down with the students and give feedback. It’s invaluable.
“SIGGRAPH sponsors some of the expenses, which makes it possible to attend.”
Said Berry, as we stood under the spectacular atrium of the lobby with the sun pouring in and the trees in their full autumnal beauty visible through the towering glass walls, “This is such a beautiful space. I’m from Texas, I don’t like the cold. Here you can be outside with the benefit of being inside.”
Everyone I spoke to agreed. Kushal Goenka, a freelance software engineer from Vancouver, is a regular to SIGGRAPH but this was his first in Asia. “I’ve been really excited by the AI coming out of Asia in particular,” he said. “I wanted to see the latest developments and the sessions have been great. I’ve been learning what people are doing and what’s new.”
“Networking is key to this event,” agreed Carrie de Souza, of leading trade fair company Koelnmesse, working with SIGGRAPH Asia at this event. “So this very central location is ideal. Easy to walk around, to explore and very convenient for transport.”
“There’s an extremely helpful local committee within Tokyo and the Student Volunteers programme is quite unique and has grown with the events. They sign up to meet with professors and get a free conference ticket; some have accommodation costs covered. Delegates enjoy coming to Tokyo in particular plus the Japanese attend in higher numbers than other countries. It’s become a trend to see that most also use it as an opportunity to enjoy a holiday afterwards.”
Tokyo’s strong appeal
Professor Igarashi identified the main reasons for bringing the event to Japan’s capital, the world’s largest city, as the strength of the local community with its strong gaming, media and video industries, the financial support from Tokyo Metropolitan Government (TMG) and Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau (TCVB) plus the inspirational Tokyo International Forum, which is a fabulous and centrally-located venue.
“Tokyo’s support is very important,” he said. “With volunteers, guides, cultural programmes and attractions. I really like the banners around the city and at the airport as a welcome. We appreciated TCVB attending the previous event in Sydney to promote attendance here.”
“AI in general is getting a lot of attention and the research in AI is changing. It’s a very exciting time for students because everything is new and very competitive. I really like this venue and location. I’m very happy to be here. Delegates have a very busy programme and can wander out in a 20-minute break. Overall, Tokyo is a very interactive city and there’s a passion to succeed.”
He also explained the importance of recruitment at the event and that the sponsors are key. “It’s important for students to have an opportunity to meet speakers plus learn from the technical papers and poster sessions. It’s an academic conference with academic discussion,” he said. “It’s a way for the industry to find the latest technology and talent.”
A local from a large Japanese gaming company said he’d found the event very stimulating and that the technical papers were of a very high level.
And no wonder, delegates were treated to displays and conversations with heavyweights of the industry including Sony, Fortiche Production, Industrial Light & Magic, Konyoshi Co., Ltd., LVM Inc., MAPPA Co., LTD., Megalis VFX, NVIDIA, SHIROGUMI INC., SOLA DIGITAL ARTS Inc., The University of Tokyo & Matsuo Lab, Toei Animation Inc., University of Toronto, Waseda University, Wētā FX and more.
Exhibitor Andrew Searle from IO Industries in London, Ontario, Canada, praised the great organisation from the team.
“There’s been a broad range of delegates – it’s a very educational, technical conference – from those with little experience to senior industry professionals. I’m here to start conversations and spread the word and this is an important event. There’s a considerable interest in electronics in the city and its universities so it draws a good crowd.”
Cultural sessions and tours courtesy of TCVB
Different kinds of cultural programmes and tours were on offer to delegates giving them an opportunity to try out Japanese crafts and offer additional networking opportunities.
Amezaiku is the ancient tradition of sculpting lollipops. A performance art, artists have long travelled to events and festivals to display their skills. One of four cultural programmes provided by TMG and TCVB, delegates got to try their hand at producing cute-looking rabbits from hot sugar paste before it hardened. More difficult than it looked!
Other equally fascinating and mindful sessions available included Calligraphy, a Tea Ceremony and Furoshiki, the art of folding and wrapping.
Many tours were also available to visit a wide variety of sites and experiences around this extraordinary city. I joined a fascinating river cruise, which culminated in a Kintsugi Experience with a local artist. Kintsugi is the art of mending broken pottery and increasing its beauty by embracing the imperfection often using gold lacquer – and it was very popular with delegates.
With its abundant support for event organisers, supportive local community and world-class facilities, Tokyo proved to be an exemplary host city for SIGGRAPH Asia. You would be hard-pressed to find a better conference destination.
For forthcoming international conferences in Tokyo, click here
Contact
In addition to the content provided for this congress, the TCVB offers a range of services including a variety of Tokyo sightseeing tours and Japanese cultural experience programmes. The level of support available is determined by the number of registered in-person attendees.
Please contact for more information: [email protected]
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