UTRECHT: "Bone Books" at 21_21 DESIGN SIGHT, On View Now

The 'Bones' in Everything We See

'BONE BOOKS' at 21_21 DESIGN SIGHT

At 21_21 DESIGN SIGHT, nestled within the verdant Tokyo Midtown Garden, an exhibition on 'bones' is currently underway, curated by product designer Shunjii Yamanaka.
In conjunction with the exhibition, 'BONE BOOKS,' curated by UTRECHT, is open for a limited time in the first-floor lobby.

Text by Hiroko Yoda (UTRECHT)Photos by Masaya Yoshimura

Considering the Mechanics: 'Specimen' → 'Experiment' → 'Bones'

Given the name 'BONE BOOKS,' one might expect a display of books resembling X-rays, with titles about bones lining the shelves. Instead, you'll find books on soup, rainbows, chairs, and automata, titles seemingly far removed from the concept of 'bones.'
With a tilt of the head, we proceed into the exhibition space.

First, we are greeted by a large, magnificent ostrich skeleton.
The precision of the joints, the delicate patterns undulating across the bone surfaces,
the framework that supports life is truly awe-inspiring.
Moving a little further, we find a display of small, intricate components, such as the hands and screws that make up a clock.
Here, the entire framework of a clock is laid out, with each piece essential for its proper function.

It appears the exhibition begins with 'specimens,' then transitions into a larger space where 'experiments' are explored, showcasing industrial products and imaginative works that embody the function of 'bones' created through human ingenuity.

Among the many interactive works, one that left a strong impression was
'Pavane for Lost Strings' by MILE. It poses a hypothetical scenario: if the piano had never existed,
how would we reconstruct it upon 'excavating' its skeletal structure? A fascinating concept for a piece.

After thoroughly enjoying the unconventional piano performance,
by the time we return to the first-floor lobby, we find ourselves unable to stop thinking about the movement of our own bones with every gesture, compelled to imagine the underlying structure of 'bones' in everything we see.

You'll likely find yourself nodding in understanding at the diverse titles of the books displayed in 'BONE BOOKS.'
On view until Sunday, August 30th. We highly recommend a visit.