Design Hidden in Everyday Life by Naoto Fukasawa

An exhibition by "WITHOUT THOUGHT," helmed by Naoto Fukasawa, one of Japan's leading product designers, is currently underway at Gallery le Bain in Minami-Azabu. This is where new Japanese design that captivates the world is born.

Text by Koji KatoPhotos by Jamandfix

Naoto Fukasawa's "Design Hidden in Everyday Life"

"WITHOUT THOUGHT" is a workshop that the DMN (Diamond Design Management Network Organization) has been holding since 1999, with product designer Naoto Fukasawa serving as its design director. Participants, who are in-house designers working for companies, engage in creative activities rooted in the essence of things, guided by free-thinking.

Each iteration culminates in an exhibition showcasing the results, and the products presented have consistently made a significant impact on the times. It's noteworthy that this workshop has produced award-winning designs, such as those selected for the Good Design Award, the "±0" project—a collaboration between Naoto Fukasawa, Takara Co., and Diamond Inc.—and the wall-mounted CD player for MUJI, all of which are designs that surprise and enlighten.

The current exhibition, WITHOUT THOUGHT Vol. 8, held at Gallery le Bain in Nishi-Azabu, explores the theme of "WIPE," presenting works that delve into the essence hidden within the simple, everyday act of wiping.
Previous themes include "Tsurigawa" (Train Hand Strap) in 2000, "e-fashion" in 2001, "product art" in 2002, "Trash Box" in 2004, "Coin" in 2005, and "Breakfast" in 2006. This workshop, which uniquely connects human actions with design, is now drawing attention from design professionals worldwide.

Shoe Cleaner / Asao Koga (NAOTO FUKASAWA DESIGN)

Glasses Case / Mariko Ozawa (±0 Co., Ltd.)

"WITHOUT THOUGHT" signifies "not thinking." It represents the inherent, ideal form of an object. The essence of design lies in actions performed without conscious deliberation. The act itself reveals the relationships that led to its conception, which then manifest as concrete designs.

The actions and gestures people unconsciously perform daily are not entirely products of free will; they are determined by the surrounding environment, including the situations and circumstances in which individuals find themselves. This is the meaning of design hidden in everyday life, and the tangible products born from it. They go beyond mere functionality to reveal our relationship with objects, touching upon the essence of human existence.