Craft x Tech Tokai Edition fuses ancient Japanese techniques with contemporary design
The Craft x Tech initiative has kicked off its second edition, spearheaded by Hideki Yoshimoto from Tangent design studio and curated by Maria Cristina Didero, this time focusing on Japan's Tokai region. This project showcases six international designers collaborating with traditional artisans to create unique pieces that blend classic craftsmanship with modern technology. Notable works include 'Grid Unwoven' by Lanzavecchia + Wai and Takanori Senda, featuring a shoji screen with hidden LEDs; 'Kataginu' by Bethan Laura Wood and Hiroyuki Murase, a tie-dyed lamp; and 'Fushi' by David Caon and Yohei Ito, a ceramic console with Oribe glaze. The exhibition will be held at Kudan House in Tokyo from May 30 to June 2, 2026.
Key facts
- Craft x Tech Tokai Edition launched with six new creations
- Initiative founded by Hideki Yoshimoto, curated by Maria Cristina Didero
- Focuses on Tokai region crafts including Mino Washi, Mino Yaki, Arimatsu Narumi Shibori, Owari Shippo, Seto Sometsuke Yaki, and Iga Kumihimo
- International designers: Lanzavecchia + Wai, David Caon, Philippe Malouin, Bethan Laura Wood, Atang Tshikare, Eugene Studio
- Artisans include Takanori Senda, Hiroyuki Murase, Yohei Ito, Mayuki Kato, Tomoyuki Matsuda
- Exhibition at Kudan House, Tokyo from 30 May to 2 June 2026
- First edition focused on Tohoku region; this edition on Tokai
- Project aims to evolve rather than preserve traditional crafts
Entities
Artists
- Hideki Yoshimoto
- Maria Cristina Didero
- Lanzavecchia + Wai
- Takanori Senda
- Bethan Laura Wood
- Hiroyuki Murase
- David Caon
- Yohei Ito
- Philippe Malouin
- Atang Tshikare
- Eugene Kangawa
- Mayuki Kato
- Tomoyuki Matsuda
- Danielle Demetriou
Institutions
- Tangent design studio
- University of Tokyo
- Suzusan
- Fudogama kiln
- Shingama kiln
- Itogo
- Warabi Paper Company
- Kudan House
- Wallpaper*
Locations
- Italy
- Singapore
- Gifu Prefecture
- Japan
- Tohoku region
- Tokai area
- Aichi Prefecture
- Mie Prefecture
- Kyoto
- Tokyo