1960

Sato graduated with a degree in Visual Design from Tokyo National University. The emergence of Tadanori Yokoo pushed him to pursue a freer, inter-disciplinary approach to the field of Graphic Design.

1970

Opened his independent studio, the beginning of a solo practice. He became fascinated with American Pop Art, exploring the realms of imitation and inspiration in his own work.

1972

Created the first of his Box Studies; a series that attempted to steer away from Bauahus traditions. With works that focused on color and gradients, he was able to better carve out a personal style.

1974

The later years of the 1970s ushered in the development of Japanese printing technology. It allowed Sato to better experiment with airbrushing and photographic technology.

1982

Sato starts teaching at the Tokyo University of the Arts. Around this time, Sato won the Tokyo ADC Award, an institution celebrating the best of digital media, graphic and publication design.

1995

For the remainder of his life, Sato taught at the Tama Art University. Near the end of his career, he became more interested in working with monochromatic pieces, developing an aversion to work that is “decorative.”