During my JICA Design Residency at Kyoto, I created various pieces through traditional techniques as a way for people to become familiar with traditional crafts in everyday activities. I worked with several Japanese artisans—experienced mentors—who supported me through the process of these projects. These objects were exhibit in the 伝統の虫 - Dento no Mushi "Urban" edition in Kyoto, Japan.
Ichi-go Ichi-e (一期一会): One life, one encounter
The following collection is an analysis of how I perceived, understood and interpreted Japanese culture through the sense of taste. Through cuisine, I believe one can best appreciate and understand a culture.
"Ichi-go Ichi-e" emphasises the power of taste to spark meaningful conversations, experiences, and memories when sharing a meal with family and friends.
Hi–Fu–Mi
A set of 3 cooking pots inspired by the Kaiseki dining style, which aims to balance temperature, texture, and taste between courses.
This series of cooking dishes are meant to encourage family and friends to gather for food, share memories, and enjoy food together.
It is made from Kyo-gawara, a smoked clay widely used in traditional Japanese housing and temples. The artisan Masahisa Asada is considered a National Treasure by the Japanese government for being the third generation of artisans keeping up alive this technique. Mr Asada mentored and collaborated through the entire development of this project in his workshop in Kyoto, Japan.
Learn more in my portfolio: Hi Fu Mi
Ikkokusenkin
A Sake set that aims to change the way you enjoy Sake during nature festivals like Hanami (花 見), the cherry blossom festival. Due to the set's symmetry, you can play with the elements to create towers with a variety of shapes.
I collaborated with Kanako Moriyama, an experienced ceramicist, throughout the creation of the Sake set.
The Sake bag features a minimalist design, combining embroidery and hand-painted Kinsai (銀彩), a gold-painting technique that enhances the value of the set.
Learn more in my portfolio: Sake set / Sake set's Handbag
Ichisenshin
The name is derived from a Japanese idiom meaning “with one’s heart and soul”. Making someone a cup of tea is a simple way to show affection and appreciation without words.
The main focus of this tea set is portability. The convenience of making tea anytime, anywhere. To achieve this, the set comes in a bag inspired by Origami's ability to make flat surfaces three dimensional. Its simplicity lies in the use of a single material and laser cutting to achieve a seamless construction.
Under the guidance of Junko Tohara, an expert artisan in natural dyes for fabrics, I hand-dyed the handkerchief (tea towel) for the set. It was dyed naturally with Aizome (藍染め), a traditional indigo dye, and finished with Ginsai (銀彩), a hand-made silver painting.
Learn more in my portfolio: Tea set / Tea set's Handbag