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Architect Kengo Kuma Discusses the "East Japan Project" and Tohoku's Reconstruction (2) | INTERVIEW Gallery

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March 25, 2015

Architect Kengo Kuma Discusses the "East Japan Project" and Tohoku's Reconstruction (2) | INTERVIEW Gallery

Architect Kengo Kuma

<strong>East Japan Project</strong> "Stand Up Pen" (Dekoshiya Daikokuya / MOUNT FUJI ARCHITECTS STUDIO)<br>Inspired by the "Okiagari Koboshi" and "Aka-beko," traditional lucky charms and folk toys from Fukushima Prefecture's Aizu region, which symbolize "falling down seven times, getting up eight" and "good health," this project has created a ballpoint pen to support Japan's future. Crafted using the "Hariko" papier-mâché technique, where paper is applied to molds made of wood or clay, these pens are extremely light due to their paper construction. A weight inside creates their unique movement. They stand upright, saving space, and their gentle swaying creates a delightful scene on any desk. They should also function as an early earthquake detector.

<strong>East Japan Project</strong> "Stand Up Pen" (Dekoshiya Daikokuya / MOUNT FUJI ARCHITECTS STUDIO)

Kengo Kuma with the "Stand Up Pen"

<strong>East Japan Project</strong> "Stand Up Pen" (Dekoshiya Daikokuya / MOUNT FUJI ARCHITECTS STUDIO)

<strong>East Japan Project</strong> "Stand Up Pen" (Dekoshiya Daikokuya / MOUNT FUJI ARCHITECTS STUDIO)

Architect Kengo Kuma

Kengo Kuma | East Japan Project

Kengo Kuma | East Japan Project

Kengo Kuma | East Japan Project

Kengo Kuma | East Japan Project

Kengo Kuma | East Japan Project

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Architect Kengo Kuma Discusses the "East Japan Project" and Tohoku's Reconstruction (2) | INTERVIEW Gallery

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