It is said that decorative masking tape originated in Kurashiki.
In particular, the masking tape manufactured by KAMOI KAKOSHI CO., LTD. is widely known by the name "mt".
The "mt ex exhibition" is an event that allows people to enjoy masking tape, originally used for industrial purposes, as art that colors spaces.
Every year, the number of mt events held at various locations across the country has reportedly exceeded 180 locations since the start of the event.
From March 27, 2025 (Thursday), we will introduce the "mt ex at IVY RED BRICK HALL (エムティー イーエックス アット アイビー レッド ブリック ホール) 2025" held at the Kurashiki Ivy Square's Aimi Red Brick Hall.
What is the mt ex exhibition?
The mt ex exhibition is an event that decorates the venue using the method of installation, expressing spaces and places as works of art, not just selling products.
A feature of the mt ex exhibition is that artists are invited to decorate using masking tape, and masking tape exclusive to the event venue is also displayed and sold.
About mt ex at IVY RED BRICK HALL 2025
In Kurashiki, the mt ex at IVY RED BRICK HALL 2025 is being held at the Aimi Red Brick Hall within Kurashiki Ivy Square.
Collaborating Artists
The mt ex exhibition held in Kurashiki has collaborated with overseas artists for three consecutive years.
- 2023: Installation with 100 colors of masking tape by Emmanuel Muho
- 2024: Three-dimensional work using masking tape by Atau, who is active mainly in Berlin, Germany
- 2025: Installation by Pip & Pop, based in Australia
Pip & Pop are artists who create works using sugar and pigments.
This time, they express a vivid world view using colorful masking tape.
Venue Overview
I attended the mt ex exhibition on a weekday, and the venue was bustling with many visitors.
Vivid Appearance
Upon entering the grounds of Aimi Red Brick Hall, colorful art greets you immediately.
The colorful path leading to the venue is also entirely made of masking tape.
The art displayed in the back has an even greater impact when viewed up close, and visitors were enjoying taking photos.
Numerous Posters on the Walls
Upon entering the venue, the first thing that catches your eye is the posters lined up on the walls.
Since the birth of mt in 2008, posters of events held so far are displayed on the walls.
The designs of the posters on the walls are based on the masking tape sold at the venues where the events were held.
Especially popular designs have been reissued and sold as catalog products.
Inside the venue, there is also art designed by collaging past posters.
Pip & Pop's Installation
As you proceed deeper into the venue, there is a room installed by Pip & Pop.
It is made by shaping paper, creating a beautifully cute space that takes your breath away.
After the event ends, everything will be removed, making it a work that can only be seen during the period.
Venue Exclusive! Various Designs of Masking Tape
A popular product at mt events is the masking tape sold exclusively at the venue.
Making its debut this time is the "Japan tape," designed with a theme of Japan.
The Bikan Historical Area in Kurashiki, where the venue is located, sees many travelers from overseas.
The Japan tape is a masking tape that conveys Japanese culture such as kabuki and ukiyo-e to foreign visitors.
Additionally, there are masking tapes designed by Pip & Pop available.
Using familiar designs such as dots and stripes, they combine colors that have never been seen before to express a unique world view.
Some masking tapes are also available for decorating vinyl umbrellas.
These masking tapes are made from Ganshin paper, a type of Japanese paper.
Regular masking tape is printed on white paper, so it appears slightly whitish when viewed from the back.
Ganshin paper is dyed throughout, so it is characterized by beautiful colors that show well from both sides.
Interview with the Person in Charge
We interviewed Ogino Sana, who is in charge of public relations at KAMOI KAKOSHI CO., LTD.
What thoughts went into planning mt ex at IVY RED BRICK HALL 2025?
Ogino (no honorifics)
The mt ex exhibition is an event that allows people to experience the future possibilities of masking tape through the display of spaces decorated with masking tape and art works.
The artist Pip & Pop we invited this time also collaborated with us during the mt factory tour in 2014.
For mt ex at IVY RED BRICK HALL 2025, we have once again requested Pip & Pop to create an installation, with the intention of reflecting on past mt events.
What has been the response to past events?
Ogino
One of the projects, "mt choice tapioca pack," allows visitors to choose their favorite masking tape and put it in a tapioca container.
The selectable masking tape changes daily, so visitors can enjoy it no matter how many times they come.
Regular customers say, “I’ll come again tomorrow,” so I feel that they are enjoying themselves.
Could you tell us about the highlights of this mt ex exhibition?
Ogino
First of all, I would like you to see the impressive decorations outside the venue.
Also, please pay attention to the posters inside the venue and the colorful space created by Pip & Pop, and I would be happy if you could experience the world of masking tape and its journey to the present.
Could you tell us about recommended ways to enjoy it?
Ogino
Since masking tape is an analog product, I believe that you can feel the fun and texture when you actually use it.
On the second floor of the venue, in addition to a workshop where you can decorate vinyl umbrellas with Ganshin seals, we also have a free workshop that children can participate in, so please join us.
Additionally, at the same time, KAMOI KAKOSHI CO., LTD. will be holding the mt factory tour vol.14 at their headquarters factory.
Many mt fans visit both the mt ex exhibition and the mt factory tour.
I hope everyone enjoys the different atmospheres at each venue and has a day filled with masking tape.
Finally, please give a message to the readers.
Ogino
I would love for stationery fans to come to the venue.
And for those who are wondering, “What is masking tape?” I believe that if you come to the venue, you will surely realize its charm.
Whether you just look at the exhibition or enjoy the workshops, you are of course very welcome.
I would be very happy if you could take this opportunity to visit.
In Conclusion
People of various ages are visiting the venue, and I felt that masking tape is loved by many.
There are clever ideas and mechanisms that even first-time visitors can enjoy, which explains why mt is loved by its fans.
I, who had a strong image of masking tape as stationery, was overwhelmed by the space decorated in various colors as art.
Please visit the venue and discover the charm of masking tape.
Articles about KAMOI KAKOSHI
Data for mt ex at IVY RED BRICK HALL 2025
| Name | mt ex at IVY RED BRICK HALL 2025 |
|---|---|
| Dates | March 27 (Thursday) to April 29 (Tuesday), 2025, 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM |
| Location | 7-2 Honmachi, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture (inside Kurashiki Ivy Square) - Ivy Red Brick Hall |
| Admission Fee (including tax) | Free admission |
| Website | mt ex at IVY RED BRICK HALL 2025 |
