In 1968 Katsuji Wakisaka came to Marimekko from Japan, where he had trained at the Kyoto School of Art and Design. He worked as a designer for Marimekko from 1968 to 1976. His portfolio included a distinctive animal-themed pattern that became the Yume fabric of his first Marimekko collection. These initial designs demonstrated the liberated, childlike design language for which he became known.