#Japan #Setagaya #Ivory #IMAGINE JAPAN #CheerFor

Showcasing Japanese Handcrafted Goods Abroad: 'IMAGINE JAPAN in Taiwan'

IVORY Inc., based in Setagaya, Tokyo, is set to support Japanese handmade creators through the joint exhibition 'IMAGINE JAPAN in Taiwan.' This event is organized in collaboration with Taiwanese select shop CheerFor and aims to assist approximately 100 mothers who are dedicated to the art of handmade crafts in penetrating overseas markets.

The exhibition allows creators to present and sell their works abroad without needing to travel to Taiwan, thanks to a consignment service that facilitates showcasing their creations while they focus on crafting.

Event Venues

The exhibition is scheduled to take place in four cultural hotspots across Taiwan, including Taipei's National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Tainan's Blueprint Cultural and Creative Park, and Kaohsiung's Pier-2 Art Center, along with the Weiwuying Center for the Arts. These venues are not only frequented by locals but also attract numerous tourists, allowing for an enriching encounter with the charm of Japanese handmade creations.

Supporting Mothers in Creative Pursuits

IVORY operates 'Gallery AGITO', a space dedicated to supporting creators, particularly those who are mothers. The company aims to create an environment where mothers can express themselves and pursue their creativity while raising their children. Their 'Mama Support Project' offers various opportunities, including hosting markets, individual exhibitions, pop-ups, and curated shows that provide crucial platforms for these creators.

The gallery showcases a wide range of handmade items, ZINEs (self-published booklets), and other artistic works, encouraging designers to thrive with regular participation in domestic and international events, ultimately expanding sales opportunities.

The upcoming exhibition is a continuation of IVORY's previous initiatives, including previous showcases in notable locations such as the Netherlands at 'MONO JAPAN' and Los Angeles' 'Be Nice Have Fun' shop. These events successfully highlighted the talent of Japanese artisans to foreign audiences.

Comprehensive Support for Overseas Exhibitions

In partnership with CheerFor, IVORY has developed a sales support system that includes language assistance, international shipping, and customer service for Taiwanese buyers. This robust framework enables Japanese creators to expand their reach without the financial and logistical burdens typically associated with international exhibitions.

About 'IMAGINE JAPAN in Taiwan'

The 'IMAGINE JAPAN in Taiwan' exhibition aims to introduce everyday Japanese creativity, including illustrations, designs, and lifestyle products, to a broader audience. The event focuses on the unique philosophies behind handmade creations, showcasing the value and intricate artistry that mass-produced items often overlook.

Event Timeline

• - Spring 2026
• - Phase 1: April 1 onwards
• - Phase 2: May 1 onwards

Venue Details

Phase 1 (April)

• - Tainan: Blueprint Cultural and Creative Park
• - Kaohsiung: Pier-2 Art Center

Phase 2 (May)

• - Taipei: National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
• - Kaohsiung: Weiwuying Center for the Arts

Co-hosts and Participants

The event is co-organized by Gallery AGITO and CheerFor, featuring a variety of brands, including the embroidery accessory creators Mocco Works, natural stone accessory shop Tweelinten, fashion brand LAUW for large dogs, and the leather smartphone case brand GRANEDGE. Approximately 100 brands are anticipated to participate.

Opening New Opportunities

Due to high interest, the call for participants for Phase 2 has been expanded until March 31. Interested creators have varied opportunities to showcase their pieces and reach new audiences. This underscores the positive response and the growing enthusiasm for Japanese craftsmanship.

About Gallery AGITO

Located just two minutes from Chitose-funabashi Station, Gallery AGITO supports creators across genres, providing a space for exhibitions and engagement in local markets. Their commitment to fostering community and nurturing relationships is a defining feature, offering not just display opportunities but rich interactions that can sustain ongoing interest in their works.

About CheerFor

Established in Taiwan, CheerFor brings together over 3,000 designers from across Asia. The platform emphasizes enhancing everyday life through creative designs and hosts numerous designer-selected shops in popular cultural locations in Taiwan, enabling customers to experience products firsthand.

Final Thoughts

Hou Sheng-Dun, a cultural curator of CheerFor, expressed his excitement about this cultural exchange, emphasizing the importance of integrating creativity into daily life. Sakiko Fujiwara, CEO of IVORY, reflected on her own experiences as a creative mother and how this initiative aims to make overseas exhibitions accessible for creators, thus enabling them to transform aspirations into reality through a supportive selling system.

This exhibition serves as a bridge for cultural exchange between Japan and Taiwan, enhancing mutual appreciation of creativity and craftsmanship.