Hi, my name is Tom. I’m from Sydney, Australia.
I am in Japan to study for my Masters Degree in Product Design. I’m studying at the Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and Music, which is a great University in Ueno Park. There are lots of super-talented people there, with everyone from painters to concert pianists and animators. I’m developing my ideas on how the human body and mind interacts with products and other systems.
I’m living near my University in Yanaka, and I’m almost the youngest person in my neighbourhood (and I’m not even that young anymore)! Yanaka is Obachan-city. Tokyo is obviously an amazing place, and in the year I have been living here, I haven’t been even remotely bored. It’s great to have the chance to live in a city where so many amazing events are held, and which so many bands pass through. I love live music, but am also quite partial to a good DJ who plays electronic, funk and anything else that makes me dance like a fool. When Tokyo drives me crazy, I leave town and try to explore the countryside. Last summer I hitch-hiked through Shikoku and Kyushu, and worked on an organic ginger and herb farm near Kagoshima. I also hiked over Minoura-dake and a good proportion of beautiful Yakushima ? the whole trip is etched in my memory. And this summer, maybe Okinawa with a friend from Australia ? bring on the cocktails in hollowed-out pineapples!!
Above all else, I love meeting new people and hearing their ideas!!