In 2025, Osaka is playing host to a World Expo for the second time. The history of Expos stretches back to the Great Exhibition of 1851 in London. Following the adoption of the Convention Relating to International Exhibitions in 1928, Expos came to be held as events that showcase the progress and future prospects of civilization based on their definition as an event that “has as its principal purpose the education of the public.” Early Expos focused primarily on showcasing physical exhibits, but after World War II, they evolved into entertainment-oriented events that provided immersive experiences. Expo 1958 Brussels heralded a further change in the nature of Expos, with greater emphasis being placed on having a unifying theme that serves as the overarching philosophy for the entire event, providing people with an opportunity to reflect on the issues raised by these themes. What was once a passive event for people to look at and enjoy things has evolved into a place where participants come together to think about solutions to social issues.

One can get a sense of how the themes of World Expos have changed over time, and how they reflect the times and society, in the official posters. This exhibition features 14 posters from 11 World Expos, starting with Expo 1958 Brussels, which marked the beginning of the modern World Expo era, and ending with Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan, as well as two Specialised Expos in Okinawa and Tsukuba, and the International Garden and Greenery Exposition in Osaka. The posters, drawn primarily from the collection of the DNP Foundation for Cultural Promotion, are being displayed with the cooperation of the Bureau International des Expositions, the World Expo Museum, and NOMURA Co., Ltd. Additionally, a special exhibition will introduce the logo and design system for Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan.
Visitors are sure to appreciate the diverse expressions created by the designers of these posters, who each put their own unique touches into capturing the essence of the themes and characteristics of their respective countries and regions. We hope this exhibition will serve as an opportunity to trace the ideals and objectives embedded in the themes of modern World Expos over the past 70 or so years through their graphic designs.