People and Objects

Left: HOTEL IL PALAZZO (2004), Right: NOTE (2006)

For objects, I believe the balance between their 'functionality,' 'universality,' and 'mystique,' depending on the situation, is crucial. It's the same in my own creative process. When these elements align, we perceive beauty or coolness. And objects only gain meaning when used by people.

In other words, the compatibility with the person using it is also extremely important. No matter how good an object is, its merits won't shine through if the user and object are not a good match. Therefore, to discern 'if an object is right for me,' one must understand oneself well. This means that people who skillfully and effortlessly use objects also understand themselves deeply. It might sound exaggerated, but objects are a mirror of the person; forcing it looks unsightly.

The name of my studio, 'CASE REAL,' is a coined term derived from a piece of writing by my former partner and I, contemplating the relationship between people and objects. I believe that not just the objects themselves, but these intangible aspects, are crucial elements that create depth in objects.

HYSTERIC GLAMOUR UMEDA (2006)