Semi Permanent
1–5 November, 2025
Press & Partnership Contact: Miyuki Kanada / miyuki@semipermanent.com
Semi Permanent, the biggest and longest-running creativity and design cultural platform in the Southern Hemisphere, is making its highly anticipated debut in Osaka,...
Speakers
Semi Permanent Festival (November 1–3)
A three-day gathering featuring keynotes, intimate throughline fireside discussions, hands-on workshops, and masterclasses led by industry leaders in culture, design, film, music, art, technology, and innovation. Expect thought-provoking discussions, groundbreaking ideas, and unparalleled networking opportunities with the global creative community.
Nourish「 Osaka 」(November 4–5)
A two-day EAT (Exploration, Art, Technique) Semi Permanent symposium inspired by professional culinary minds from test labs, exploring the intersection of food, culture, and creativity. World-class chefs, food writers, and culinary innovators will share their expertise and vision for the future of gastronomy and innovation.
Friends Of Exhibition (November 1–5)
Curated by renowned designer Stefan Sagmeister, this initial public exhibition will showcase innovative new works from Sagmeister’s “Now is Better” series. Friends Of will become Semi Permanent’s annual exhibition showcasing our alumni of global artists, designers, and visionaries.
Why Osaka?
Known as “The Nation’s Kitchen” (天下の台所, Tenka no Daidokoro), Osaka is a city where culinary excellence, cultural depth, and contemporary innovation collide. From its world-famous street food to neon-lit urban landscapes and historic landmarks, Osaka is a city of contrasts, where tradition meets modernity and creativity thrives. As a hub for cutting-edge design and warm hospitality, it’s the perfect setting for Semi Permanent’s first venture into Japan.
A Vision for the Future
Osaka marks the beginning of Semi Permanent’s deeper engagement with Japan’s thriving cultural and creative scene. The festival will act as a launchpad for long-term collaborations with the team at VS., bringing together diverse creative voices to shape the future of design, art, and culture.
Over the coming years, Semi Permanent will move across Japan, returning to its Osaka basecamp at VS. The next editions will take place in Kanazawa (Ishikawa Prefecture) in 2026 and Fukuoka (Fukuoka Prefecture) in 2027. Each new location will build upon fostering community across Japan’s rich creative landscapes while maintaining strong ties to the Semi Permanent community in Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo.