In the fiscal year 2021, the Institute of Advanced Media Arts and Sciences (IAMAS) celebrated the 25th anniversary of the former Gifu Prefectural International Academy of Media Arts and Sciences, and the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the Institute of Advanced Media Arts and Sciences. In addition to the two-year Master’s Program, the Doctoral Program has been expanded to a total of five years, enabling students to engage in long-term research.

In this turbulent age brought about by the changes in information technology and natural disasters such as earthquakes, and the COVID-19 pandemic, confusion and fragmentation is spreading from society to the individual. Our lifestyles and values have been greatly shaken, and we are faced with a variety of problems that can not be solved with conventional thinking. In the midst of this we are asking ourselves, “how can we use the power of learning to open up our society?”.

The fusion of science and art in our school’s philosophy does not simply mean the crossing of the different fields of science and art. It refers to the practice of confronting society with the effects of technology on society and the mind. As well as actual research with deep insights into true value, backed up by real practice that takes sustainability into consideration, and not by empty theories. In other words, it is an academic study of media expression that aims to contribute to the creation of a new culture while at the same time leading society by discovering the knowledge of creation through the integration of creativity across a variety of fields.

I believe that IAMAS is an environment where 18 faculty members from different fields can come together to put these philosophies into practice, working along with students, graduates and the local community, to take on challenges as an experimental place where research can be conducted without fear of failure. While connecting people together, we will continue to share the results of our research and the activities of our graduates to society, and make further contributions in these confusing times.