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1 The Washi Exploratory exhibited at MONO Japan Fair 2022 (photography by Yuta Sawamura)
2 Sekishu Washi seets drying in the sun in Misumi, Japan
3 Talk about handmade paper with Sekishu Washi artisan So Kubota, artist Annelinde de Jong and designer Jonas Althaus
3 Selection of samples (folding, embossing, weaving)
1 The Washi Exploratory exhibited at MONO Japan Fair 2022 (photography by Yuta Sawamura)
2 Sekishu Washi seets drying in the sun in Misumi, Japan
3 Talk about handmade paper with Sekishu Washi artisan So Kubota, artist Annelinde de Jong and designer Jonas Althaus
3 Selection of samples (folding, embossing, weaving)
02. The Washi Exploratory
What associations does hand-made paper evoke today? The craft of Sekishu Washi is carried on by only four remaining workshops in the region of Shimane. Used for centuries in Japanese architecture and popular craft items, washi paper is strongly rooted in traditional applications.
But what happens when this special material is placed in contemporary or industrial contexts?
What new potentials are then revealed? Inspired by its high endurance, strength, and sustainable production method, the Washi Exploratory investigates the (im)material qualities of washi.
In the shape of an interactive paper installation, different treatments of Sekishu Washi are displayed that communicate the paper’s unique properties and reflect on new perceptions of washi. Using a handheld washi light, visitors are invited to illuminate and freely explore the many facets and possibilities with this paper.
The Washi Exploratory was the first phase of poject Washi Futurism
Collaboration with Satomi Minoshima and studio Cream on Chrome
Collaboration with So Kubota and Masaru Nishita
2023 Exhibited at Sekio Hall, Hamada, Japan
2022 Exhibited at MONO Japan fair, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
This project was supported by Stimuleringsfonds Creatieve Industrie