Architect Kengo Kuma on the 'East Japan Project' and Tohoku's Reconstruction (Part 1) | INTERVIEW Gallery
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March 18, 2015

Architect Kengo Kuma on the 'East Japan Project' and Tohoku's Reconstruction (Part 1) | INTERVIEW Gallery

Architect Kengo Kuma
Architect Kengo Kuma
<strong>East Japan Project</strong> 'Stand Up Pen' (Dekoyashiki Daikokuya / MOUNT FUJI ARCHITECTS STUDIO)<br>Inspired by the movements of 'Oshikiri Kokeshi' and 'Aka-beko,' traditional lucky charms and folk toys from Fukushima Prefecture's Aizu region, symbolizing 'falling down seven times, getting up eight' and 'good health.' These charms are the inspiration for a ballpoint pen designed to support Japan's future. Crafted using the 'Hariko' papier-mâché technique, where paper is applied to molds made of wood or clay, these creations are exceptionally light. A weighted interior gives them their unique, wobbly motion. They stand upright on their own, saving space, and their gentle sway creates a delightful scene on any desk. They might even function as an early earthquake detector.
Architect Kengo Kuma
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Architect Kengo Kuma Discusses the 'East Japan Project' and Tohoku's Reconstruction (Part 1) | INTERVIEW Gallery

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