The project “Creation as Dialogue” will be participating in the international lifestyle exhibition « Maison & Objet » held in Paris, France, as an opportunity to connect the cultures of craftsmanship between Nagoya and Europe and showcase our products on an international stage.
Lacquerware, cloisonné, shibori dyeing, kuromontsuki-zome, setsumon, hina dolls, seal carving, sanbo, and butsudan altars.
These ancient crafts have endured the test of time as revered traditions in the Nagoya region, at the very core of a rich cultural legacy. They have been meticulously preserved throughout the ages, symbolizing the craftsmanship and expertise of skilled artisans. Embracing our daily lives with their vibrant hues, offering a conduit for devout prayers, and symbolizing a profound connection to our ancestral roots, these time-hon- ored crafts have been cherished and utilized with great care, holding a special place in our cultural heri- tage.
In this project, we have collaborated with three designers thriving on the international stage with Europe as their creative hub: Sawako Furukawa (formerly of Bottega Veneta), Daisuke Hirabayashi (formerly of Herzog & de Meuron), and Kodo Nawa (formerly of Van Cleef & Arpels). Together with ten local companies, the custodians of traditional industries deeply rooted in the Nagoya region, we have embarked on a creative journey.
By blending the boundless creativity of Europe with the craftsmanship that lies at the heart of Nagoya, we have given birth to a collection of products that embody the synergy between these two cultural spheres. These products, meticulously crafted by artisans, exude a warmth that comes from human touch. Their refined designs showcase the pinnacle of sophistication, instilling a sense of freshness and awe in our everyday lives.
The exceptional skills nurtured in the Nagoya region are a rare manifestation of beauty that can only be created by human hands. They represent the profound spirituality intertwined with the essence of crafts- manship. In today’s society, where excessive consumption and the pursuit of efficiency often dominate, the « culture of handicraft » enlightens us to its fundamental value. This « culture of handicraft » is currently facing challenges to transmit to their skills to successors, leading to its gradual decline. Regrettably, the meticu- lous craftsmanship of artisans who strive for continuous improvement on a daily basis has had little oppor- tunity to showcase the true essence of its beauty outside of Nagoya.
Building on the success of the test marketing conducted at the historic passage « Galerie Vivienne » in Paris during 2022’s Paris Fashion Week, we are pleased to announce our participation in the prestigious « Maison & Objet, » from September 7th to 11th. Through dialogue with different cultural spheres, we aim to create continuity and circulation within this craftsmanship, forging a new future.
Creation as DIALOGUE
Organized by the City of Nagoya, this project aims to support the overseas marketing of traditional indus- tries. By reexamining the techniques and identity of traditional industry stakeholders from new perspec- tives, we seek to transform their value, foster innovation through craftsmanship, and explore new sales channels.
Contact Press
Ami NAWA | +33 6 01 04 57 49 | info@creation-as-dialogue.jp
City of Nagoya, Economic Affairs Bureau Industry Department Industrial Planning Office www.creation-as-dialogue.jp
