From June 10th to 16th, Isetan Shinjuku is hosting "Shokunin Kaihoku" (Artisans Liberation Zone) on the first floor of the main building at The Stage, showcasing the creativity of approximately 40 artists, from artisans representing Japan's most prestigious brands to up-and-coming young artists. This event is part of Isetan Mitsukoshi's project to promote the "new value of Japanese crafts" both domestically and internationally. Three curators will promote the "value of artisans" based on three key themes: "Gather," "Global," and "Creative." The "Gather" zone focuses on Arita ware from Saga Prefecture. Inspired by Hidemi Nagoya of "h concept" and Isetan Mitsukoshi, the event brings together 26 potteries, including Imaemon and Kakiemon, from among the approximately 150 potteries in Japan, that continue to pursue both tradition and innovation. The exhibition will focus on small plates, born from Japan's unique culture, and will be on sale.
Participating potteries include Imaemon Kiln, Imamura Seito, Kakiemon Kiln, Kajiken Seijisha, Keizan Kiln, Gen'emon Kiln, Koyo Kiln, Koransha, Shin Kiln, Sehei Kiln, Sota Kiln, Tsuji Hitachi Kiln, Densaku Kiln, Denpei Kiln, Toetsu Kiln, Tokko Kiln, Hatamatsu Touen, Fukagawa Seiji, Fukuju Kiln, Fukusen Kiln, Fujimaki Seito, Yamahira Kiln, Yoyama Kiln, Rikyu Kiln, Riso Kiln, and 224porcelain.
In the "Global" zone, Danish author Jens H. Jensen will serve as curator, introducing "Japan's world-renowned craftsmanship and the value of manufacturing" in collaboration with the magazine "Discover Japan." Exhibiting works include Momentum Factory Orii (Hiroshi Orii), fresco, Seki Bikodo, Hara Nao, Kunimoto Lacquerware (Kotaro Kunimoto), Hana Kokoro Kyoto Bamboo Baskets (Chiemi Ogura), and Kyo-Hyogu Inoue Mitsugado (Masahiro Inoue). In the "Creative" zone, Takahiro Komatsu, president of Watowa Inc., will showcase custom-made gifts by a diverse range of creators, along with "THE GIFTER," a project that combines the spirit, skill, and sensibility of Japanese artisans and artists with the giver's thoughts to create one-of-a-kind gifts. Designer Hideto Tawarato will present a "Message Barcode" gift, transforming traditional marquetry techniques into acrylic, creating a work of art called "Yose Acrylic." This piece, which expresses the message you want to convey in barcode form, can be read with an actual barcode reader.
Funny Dress-up Lab's "Dress-up Sticker Portrait" proposes a gift in which Mini 4WD dress-up stickers are collaged onto acrylic to create a portrait based on the recipient's photo. Additionally, the "Creative" zone will feature works by Kamide Choemon Kiln, Ohira Ryuichi, KENSEI YABUNO, Takahashi Riko, and Kuramoto Mitsuru.
