Michael Anastassiades illuminates Kyoto machiya with sunset-inspired exhibition
London-based designer Michael Anastassiades, originally from Cyprus, showcases 'From Warm Yellow to Saturated Red' at Taka Ishii Gallery in Kyoto, marking his inaugural solo exhibition in the city. This exhibition is set within a 150-year-old machiya (townhouse) and features an array of new lighting, sculptural pieces, and seating. A highlight is the 'Sunset' lamps, consisting of five slender glass tubes with illuminated filaments that lower progressively, reflecting the sun's descent as guests navigate the space. Additionally, Anastassiades unveils bronze casts of stones from Kefalonia, bamboo lights intertwined with Icelandic fishing linen, and triangular stools made from Oregon pine, inspired by Egyptian designs. The exhibition will be on display until 4 July 2026, shortly after he revealed plans to close his lighting brand after nearly two decades to concentrate on creative endeavors.
Key facts
- Exhibition titled 'From Warm Yellow to Saturated Red' at Taka Ishii Gallery Kyoto
- First solo exhibition in Kyoto for Michael Anastassiades
- Venue is a 150-year-old machiya (traditional townhouse)
- Features 'Sunset' lamp series with five glass tubes forming a circle
- Lamps positioned progressively lower to mimic sunset
- Includes 25 bronze casts of stones from Kefalonia, Greece
- Bamboo lights use knotting technique from Icelandic fishermen
- Triangular stools made from Oregon pine, inspired by Egyptian stools
- Exhibition opened after Anastassiades announced closure of his lighting brand
- Runs until 4 July 2026
Entities
Artists
- Michael Anastassiades
- Joanna Louca
- Eileen Gray
Institutions
- Taka Ishii Gallery Kyoto
- Royal College of Art
- Toshiba
- Flos
- Wallpaper*
Locations
- Kyoto
- Japan
- London
- Cyprus
- Kefalonia
- Greek island
- Rhodes
- Tokyo