FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Bon Vivant: Award-Winning Information Magazine Bridging Communities with Art and Local Stories

"Bon Vivant," designed by renowned illustrator Kiyoka Yamazuki, has been recognized with the Silver A' Graphics, Illustration and Visual Communication Design Award for 2025. Commissioned by BOON Corporation and Shinkumi Sogo Service Corporation, and supervised by the National Federation of Shinkin Banks, this bimonthly magazine has graced the storefronts of Shinkin banks across Japan for over five years, offering customers a free, accessible way to discover the unique people, industries, and traditions of their local regions.

Each issue of Bon Vivant features a hand-drawn cover illustration by Yamazuki, whose use of warm colors and nostalgic imagery invites readers to engage with the magazine and, by extension, their communities. Notably, the Hiroshima Summer edition, inspired by the Itsukushima Shrine Orchestra Festival, exemplifies the magazine's mission to energize both people and cities by highlighting regional festivals and world heritage sites. The approachable B5-sized publication, with approximately 15 pages per issue, is designed to be easily picked up and taken home, fostering a sense of connection and pride among readers.

The magazine's impact is reflected in feedback from readers, who have expressed how the illustrations evoke memories of home and the changing seasons. Yamazuki's creative process combines traditional hand-drawing techniques with occasional digital retouching, resulting in covers that stand out on bank shelves and encourage spontaneous discovery. By introducing local products, people, and tourist spots, Bon Vivant has played a pivotal role in promoting regional charm and supporting community ties, earning its place as a celebrated example of design excellence and social contribution.

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