1990–2000

Visually representing facts about humans, history, and objects requires “democratizing the findings of scientists,” as Katsui puts it, and finding empathy. In other words, the designer creates a bridge between scientists and ordinary humans. This bridge, or common ground, is known as ikizama—a Japanese concept encompassing every facet of life and that around which Katsui’s work revolves. Maggie Kinser Saiki, the author of 12 Japanese Masters, describes it as

“the daily commingling of the inspiring, the terrible, the fantastic, and the beautiful.”