I visited the special exhibition “Creation in the Time of COVID-19,” produced by Whatever and currently on display at NHK Plus Cross SHIBUYA, so I brought it up at today’s meeting of the NHK Central Broadcasting Program Council—the last one of the year. And I also mentioned Gundam!

"Creation in the Time of COVID-19," which is being presented in conjunction with "Tekne: The Film Workshop," is an exhibition that focuses on human creativity—the ability to continue producing diverse forms of expression even amid the constraints of daily life.

The exhibition features a variety of content and virtual events produced remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic—including plays, TV dramas, and anime created entirely by teams working from different locations; virtual bicycle races, music concerts, and robotics competitions; and the virtual city “Virtual Shibuya”—as well as various challenges designed to help people enjoy remote living while connecting with others around the world online.

It is said that the Renaissance emerged in the wake of the 14th-century plague, but what kind of new culture will the coronavirus give rise to?

I hope NHK will not only take on the challenge of “creation” but also fulfill its role in “documenting” it, and in that regard, this was a very good exhibition.

*I really love Okazaki Taiiku, so I included that photo too, but I wonder if I could have captured a better moment… I'm sorry!

A life-size, moving Gundam—it’s simply amazing.

It gave me a glimpse of how science and technology evolve, and I was once again amazed by the power of content to inspire such enthusiasm among the engineers Japan is so proud of.

It's also nice that the story is set up so that parts were discovered near Yamashita Pier, and engineers came together to rebuild it (*^^*)

Director Tomino once said, “Japan is such a wonderful country where we can enjoy such silly pastimes in peace,” and that is Japan’s strength.

Pop culture and technology. That's the culmination of Japan's strengths in those two areas, isn't it?

Pop culture = using technology to bring to life what we imagine in our minds. Imagine and Realize. That’s my dream.

I’m grateful to NHK for broadcasting live that moment—a modern-day Great Buddha that, precisely because of the COVID-19 pandemic, brought an even brighter light to the world.

However, I’ve heard that there are various regulations in Japan that make it difficult to implement this. Since a life-size Gundam is classified as heavy machinery, it can’t move without being equipped with turn signals and other safety features. And if it were to fly, it would apparently require a massive relaxation of regulations. It’s a shame that it’s so hard to make the most of such incredible potential.

A theme that can be explored in depth from the perspectives of culture, technology, and society.

I look forward to the next installment.