WOW inc. | Japanese swords as art: "aikuchi exhibition"
WOW inc.｜WOW
A Limited Edition Collection Piece Designed by Marc Newson
Exhibiting the Japanese Sword 'Aikuchi' as Art
Visual design studio WOW inc. has collaborated with product designer Marc Newson to create the original art piece 'aikuchi,' embodying the essence of Japanese swords, a tradition boasting over 1,000 years of history. This piece will be unveiled to the public on March 20th at the Tokyo Art Club, a venue that has contributed to Japanese fine art and contemporary art for nearly 100 years.
Text by KAJII Makoto (OPENERS)
World Premiere Exhibition Held Ahead of Global Launch
The Japanese sword, with its entire form from blade to fittings representing the pinnacle of traditional craftsmanship, has garnered numerous enthusiasts worldwide. This exhibition, 'WOW x Marc Newson "aikuchi" Exhibition,' offers a new perspective on this proud Japanese art form through a global lens.
The 'aikuchi,' a collection of 10 limited edition pieces, is the result of Marc Newson's design, created through the fusion of Japanese aesthetics, traditional craftsmanship, and innovative design.
The name 'aikuchi' refers to a type of Japanese sword without a tsuba (hand guard), symbolizing peace and friendship. Though born as a weapon, the Japanese sword evolved with the times. In peacetime, it lost its functional need for a tsuba, and its value transformed into that of a protective charm, a legacy passed down to the present day.
Marc Newson, resonating with the symbolism of the 'aikuchi,' has channeled this concept into his creation. The exhibition will feature not only the 'aikuchi' pieces but also a new installation and a concept movie that embody the exhibition's theme.
WOW x Marc Newson "aikuchi exhibition"
Venue: Tokyo Art Club, 3rd Floor
6-19-15 Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Tel. 03-3432-0191 (General Inquiries)
Dates: March 20, 2014 (Thursday)
10:00 - 17:00 (Public Exhibition Hours)
Organizers: Aikuchi Production Committee (WOW inc., Marc Newson Ltd, EXS inc., Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, Tohoku Bureau)
w0w.co.jp/aikuchi
Aikuchi Production Committee
Yushi Takahashi
Representative, WOW inc.
Born into a family of swordsmiths spanning generations since the 18th century, he was raised surrounded by traditional crafts and ancient art. He established his company in Sendai in 1997, expanding his activities to Tokyo in 2000 and London in 2007. He is also dedicated to promoting traditional Japanese aesthetics in the modern era.
http://www.w0w.co.jp/
Photography by Jesse Shadoan
Marc Newson
Marc Newson is one of the most successful and influential designers of our time. He has consistently produced innovative works across a wide range of genres, including household objects, furniture, watches, bicycles, cars, yachts, restaurants, aircraft interiors, architecture, and his own sculptural pieces.
http://www.marc-newson.com/