Curated by Masato Tsukiji of Biotope; Installation by ima

The shrine grounds, decorated with Marimekko's printed fabrics; the Treasure Hall exhibition room, displaying works by three Finnish textile masters—Dora Jung, Maija Isola, and Fujio Ishimoto—rich with their interpretations of nature; and the Treasure Hall entrance hall, which hosted a pop-up shop.──This is the "Finnish Textile Art – Light and Shadow Woven by the Seasons" exhibition, brimming with highlights.

The installation using Marimekko's printed fabrics was created by interior designers Kyo Kobayashi and Mana Kobayashi of ima. The rare art textiles by Dora Jung, displayed in the Treasure Hall exhibition room, are being shown in Japan for the first time. Additionally, the pop-up shop features original collaborative goods with ceramic artist Makoto Kagoshima, along with select lifestyle items and related products chosen for this exhibition.

Furthermore, by visiting in conjunction with the special exhibition "Edo's Chic: Inro – The Finnish Kress Collection," held at the adjacent Kyushu National Museum from December 19 (Wed.), visitors can gain a deeper appreciation for the design sensibilities and aesthetic values of both Finland and Japan.

Exhibiting Artists

Dora Jung (1906–1980)

Textile designer/artist. A national designer, she won Grand Prix awards at two Milan Triennales and designed table settings for Finnair. This exhibition features works that strongly reflect Finnish nature, including woven pieces in darker tones, reminiscent of Tohoku's handweaving, and art pieces inspired by myths and legends.

Maija Isola (1927–2001)

Textile designer. Marimekko's most famous designer. While known for iconic designs like the bold black-and-white "JOONAS" pattern and the large, abstract floral "UNIKKO," the works displayed in the Treasure Hall for this exhibition were selected for their simple, nature-inspired aesthetic, fitting the shrine's atmosphere, to showcase her view of nature.

Fujio Ishimoto (1941–)

Textile designer. He worked as a textile designer for Marimekko from 1974 onwards, creating over 300 textile designs and winning numerous design awards. His works often feature motifs of flora, trees, and landscapes, reflecting classical Japanese aesthetics and a deep connection with nature. This exhibition presents him as a bridge between Japan and Finland, and between past and present.


Ima (Kyo Kobayashi + Mana Kobayashi)

Interior designers. They have undertaken interior design projects for numerous shops and residences worldwide, including Marimekko stores. Their design philosophy emphasizes creating concepts that enhance spaces, balancing usability and functionality with a sense of proportion and humor. For this exhibition, they have developed installations using Finnish textiles, maximizing the unique atmosphere of Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine.

Related Exhibitions

Topic Exhibition: "Edo's Chic: Inro – The Finnish Kress Collection"

Period: December 19, 2012 (Wed.) – March 10, 2013 (Sun.)

Venue: Kyushu National Museum (Cultural Exchange Exhibition Room, Related Room 9)

A joint ticket for the Kyushu National Museum (Cultural Exchange Exhibition Room), Dazaifu Tenmangu Treasure Hall, and Sugawara Historical Museum for 500 yen offers great value. Tickets can be purchased at each venue.