Turning Discarded Wine Bottles into Stunning Table Art: A Collaboration to Celebrate Creativity and Sustainability

Transforming Waste into Art: The Wine Bottle Upcycle Project

In an innovative collaboration, Sommelier Co., Ltd., Women's Art University, and Cuvée J2 Hôtel Osaka have launched the 'Wine Bottle Upcycle Project.' This initiative aims to turn discarded wine bottles into exquisite table art, blending sustainability with creativity. At the AWA SUSHI restaurant within the hotel, empty wine bottles enjoyed by patrons will be reborn as unique art pieces crafted by talented students, showcasing the beauty of upcycling.

Project Overview

The project began in 2023 as a collaboration between Sommelier Co., Ltd. and Women's Art University, connecting art, the environment, and the real world. Wine bottles collected from eateries around Tokyo will be transformed by students, adding new value and stories to the glass. These creations will seamlessly integrate into dining spaces, providing an experience of 'beautifully circular interactions' in daily life.

The Hidden Problem of Wine Bottle Waste

Japan consumes approximately 470 million wine bottles annually. However, many of these glass containers quietly end up in landfills after use, highlighting a significant issue within modern consumption patterns. In response, Sommelier Co., Ltd. seeks to promote a 'happy life with wine' while simultaneously addressing this waste. By collaborating with Women's Art University, which focuses on nurturing future female creators, they aim to create new value through upcycling. In 2025, Cuvée J2 Hôtel Osaka by 温故知新 pledged support for this initiative, incorporating it into their operations.

Efforts at Cuvée J2 Hôtel Osaka

At this hotel, the project incorporates the collection and repurposing of champagne bottles from its restaurant, AWA SUSHI. The artworks rejuvenated by students now serve as table art and functional vessels, bridging art and dining experiences.

Voices from Participating Students

Students from Women's Art University have shared their enthusiasm for the project. Shiori Shimura, a third-year student in the glass department, stated, "I joined the project because I wanted to see my work used in a hotel setting, a space where diverse people gather. I designed my piece to harmonize with the food served, focusing on the curvature of the wine bottle and the right firing temperature. Witnessing my art on the table filled me with joy."

Another student, Riho Yamada, expressed her insights: "I was drawn to the creative potential of using wine bottles. I aimed for a light design that fits the hotel’s atmosphere, even reducing the base area to create an illusion of levitation. The polishing process was particularly challenging, but hearing that my piece was actually used brought me tremendous joy and confidence."

Comments from AWA SUSHI Staff

The staff at Cuvée J2 Hôtel Osaka highly value creating an exceptional dining environment that pairs sushi and champagne. They were inspired by the concept of upcycling champagne bottles and appreciated the opportunity to collaborate with students to transform these bottles into something extraordinary. This initiative has not only enriched the dining experience but also drawn enthusiastic comments from guests, who feel the space is now imbued with fresh stories.

The Significance of the Project

Sustainability Meets Art

This initiative creatively tackles environmental issues through art. It also facilitates valuable connections between education and the real world, providing students with the opportunity to see their creativity manifest as tangible products in society. Collaborating with the local food and beverage industry ensures that these pieces are not merely decorative but serve functional purposes.

Future Developments and Participation

As the project progresses, plans include expanding its reach to various venues and establishments nationwide, exploring options for exhibitions and pop-up shops for general sales. Furthermore, Sommelier Co., Ltd. is currently initiating the upcycling of wine corks, with aspirations to delve into merchandise and small items in the future. This project strives to create a sustainable framework that harnesses students’ creativity, welcoming partnerships with like-minded businesses and organizations.

Contact for Participation

For inquiries regarding participation in this project, collaboration opportunities, or to provide and collect used wine bottles from restaurants and hotels, interested parties are encouraged to contact:

Sommelier Co., Ltd.
Email: [email protected]
Hours: Weekdays, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Project Participants

- Sommelier Co., Ltd.

Headquartered in Roppongi, Tokyo, it partners with 100 producers across 16 countries, operating a wine-focused e-commerce site and stores.

- Women's Art University

Founded in 1900, it is recognized for pioneering women’s art education, offering practical programs that produce diverse artists and designers.

- Cuvée J2 Hôtel Osaka by 温故知新

This adult hideaway offers a minimalistic yet elegant space harmonizing sushi and champagne experiences, challenging new culinary and hospitality cultures.

Explore more on our Instagram: Learn about wine choices and dining tips under the theme ‘Creating Happiness with Wine’ from Sommelier Co., Ltd.