The "Hermès Handicrafts Exhibition: The Atelier Has Arrived" opened at Omotesando Hills Space O on March 9th and runs until the 19th.
The exhibition, which began in 2011 as an event celebrating the craftsmanship of artisans working in Hermès' workshops, has since toured cities around the world. The first Japanese exhibition, held in Tokyo's Omotesando district, features 10 sections dedicated to the Maison's craftsmanship, showcasing the handiwork of artisans who create a wide range of products, including saddles, leather goods, scarves, porcelain, watches, and jewelry.
Leather products are essential to discussing the Maison's history, which began with the manufacture of saddlery in 1837. The leather-themed exhibition "Leather Forever," held in Ueno in 2014, is still fresh in our memory. Leather is truly the foundation of the Maison, and here you can get a close-up look at the production process for saddles, bags like the Kelly and Birkin, and even gloves. As the artisans carefully stretch and cut the leather and assemble each intricate piece, their hands seem to bear a sense of pride, along with the dirt and wrinkles.

The incredibly trustworthy and valuable Hermès products would not be possible without the presence of these skilled artisans. These artisans step out of their atelier to demonstrate their work before our very eyes, demonstrating their mastery and infusing their craft with life. Even the "carré" scarves that captivate women worldwide—from the silkscreen maker's digitalization of the original design to the printing process and the finishing hemming—make it clear how many artisans have passed through each piece to create them. It's no wonder that Hermès has captivated people throughout the ages.

The exhibition also features a corner dedicated to Maison Saint-Louis, the pinnacle of crystal, where visitors can experience the workshop through 360° VR footage. This innovative experience allows visitors to experience the traditional production process through cutting-edge equipment. Additionally, in the sections for jewelry stone setters and watchmakers, there are viewing monitors that allow you to feel as if you are performing the work yourself, and you will be overwhelmed by the astonishingly detailed work. The craftsmen are happy to answer questions, so this is a great opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

During the exhibition, Ginza Maison Hermès will also be holding the event "Hermès Handicraft Exhibition 'Welcome to the Maison'". There will also be a small library cafe attached, and a number of participatory programs will be available, such as film screenings, talk sessions, workshops, and live drawing, allowing you to experience Hermès' handicrafts in even more depth. The exhibition will run until the 26th.
【Exhibition Information】
Hermès Handicrafts Exhibition “The Atelier Has Arrived”
Venue: Omotesando Hills Space O
Address: 4-12-10 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Dates: March 9th to 19th
Time: 11:00-19:00 (last entrance 18:30)
Admission: Free