200 Days to GREEN×EXPO 2027: Talk Event Explores 'The Craft of Park Creation' Through Art and Greenery

In preparation for the 'GREEN×EXPO 2027,' a forum will be held to examine the process of 'creating parks' from the dual perspectives of art and greenery. Scheduled to begin in March 2027, the expo adopts the theme 'Tomorrow’s Scenery that Creates Happiness,' proposing a society that coexists with nature and introduces new urban landscapes.

Recent years have seen a surge in interest regarding urban green spaces, including parks, street trees, and rooftop gardens, driven by the need for heatwave mitigation and the creation of comfortable public areas. This forum focuses on the professional labor behind these spaces. The guest speakers are Gen Kumagai (Landscape Designer, STGK Inc.), who has designed numerous lush landscapes, and Tomoyuki Sasaki (Arborist, Seiemon), who is active in park management, planning, and nature observation.

Using the proposed new park on the post-expo site of 'GREEN×EXPO 2027' as a case study, the speakers will discuss the roles of landscape design and tree management, global park trends, and the future relationship between cities and greenery. The event aims to provide insights into how familiar everyday landscapes are created and protected from the specialized viewpoints of 'art' and 'greenery.'

Event Highlights:
1. Timing: Held 200 days before 'GREEN×EXPO 2027' at a cultural facility in the host district, Seya-ku.
2. Focus: Spotlighting the 'creators' of our most familiar green spaces.
3. Dialogue: A cross-talk between a landscape designer and an arborist regarding the future of urban environments.
4. Future Plans: Discussion of the park vision for the post-expo site.

Event Overview:
- Title: ACY Forum vol.7 – Exploring the Intersection of Art and Society: 'What Does it Mean to Create a Park?'
- Date: August 31, 2026 (Monday), 14:00-16:00
- Venue: Yokohama Seya Ward Cultural Center Ajisai Plaza, 4th Floor
- Admission: Free (Pre-registration required, first-come-first-served)
- Capacity: 50 people
- Sign Language Interpretation: Available upon request (by August 20).

Speaker Profiles:
Gen Kumagai: Landscape Designer and founder of STGK Inc. He works on landscape designs that shape everyday living. His notable projects include Sakonyama Minna-no-Niwa and JR Yokohama Tower Umi-Sora Deck. He is part of the design joint venture for the post-expo park planning.

Tomoyuki Sasaki: Arborist and Nature Guide. Specializing in plant ecology, he aims for 'nature-positive' outcomes through park and garden creation. He leads various activities to share the joy of nature and has authored several books on roadside plants.