Last month, large graffiti art appeared on four walls in Tokyo's Ura-Harajuku neighborhood, creating a buzz. The work was created by internationally renowned graffiti artist Stephen Powers, who, as a "sign maker," spreads art to cities around the world through his mural project, "A Love Letter for You." Powers visited Japan ahead of his first solo exhibition in Japan, "TODAY IS ALREADY TOMORROW," currently on view at Gallery Target in Harajuku, Tokyo. He painted on the block walls of Harajuku Street, the shutters of the Tanabe Mansion along Cat Street, and the walls of BOOKMARC and MARC BY MARC JACOBS Harajuku. On April 18, Powers held a signing session for his new collection, "A LOVE LETTER TO THE CITY," at Bookmark. Regarding this project, he said, "It was difficult to move forward with the project while listening to the opinions of the neighbors, but when I explained why I wanted to paint on the walls, they sympathized with me, and with their support, I was able to make it happen. I was deeply moved when one child looked at me curiously as I was painting and explained to him, '(That person) is doing something wonderful for Japan.'"

He also seems to have taken a liking to Japan. "I usually find themes through conversations with people, but this time I was also greatly inspired by Japan; I haven't slept in eight days (since arriving in Japan). I'm deeply moved by the pride and dedication that Japanese people take in their work." He says he incorporated his feelings for Japan into the message "NOW IS FOREVER" that appears on his largest piece.

This project, which began with a bookmark, is also expected to help combat the recent increase in graffiti in urban areas.