Thursday, October 9, 2008

Digital Good Time III: Nagi Noda (1973 - 2008)

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Digital Good Time III: Nagi Noda (1973 - 2008)
(Digital Good Time is a series in which xoxobra focuses on the visual side of music)

This post pays tribute to the late Japanese artist Nagi Noda, who passed away last month due to complications from surgery after a traffic accident. She was 34.

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Admittedly, I wasn't familiar with Noda until I learned of her death, but after spending some time at her website I discovered a truly unique visual artist with talent ranging from fashion to photography to visual effects. Whether it was music videos, short films, book and album covers, package design, clothing design or...hair hats (?), everything she touched was most definitely unique, to say the least. Here's a small sample of her work, and though there are tons of videos and images that I could've displayed, I've decided to focus primarily on the music related items.

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(album cover for Japanese pop star Meg's 2008 single, "Precious")


(2007 video for Japanese singer Yuki's song, "Sentimental Journey")

Though the above video starts slowly, it's really worth your time to watch the entire thing. From the perspective of someone who has studied visual effects, this must have taken an eternity to complete (it utilizes a motion-controlled camera that separately filmed each duplicate). It's a true testament to how a semi-simple idea can be made extraordinary through careful planning and flawless execution.

I've only scratched the surface of Nagi Noda's life and creative output, so please take time to visit Nagi Noda's website, Uchu Country, or just Google her name and prepare to be amazed. Though I hardly knew she, I'm sure the art world will miss her.

Links:
Uchu Country


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