#Japan #Tokyo #Tatami Culture #Japanese Tradition #COMMOS PROJECT

Exploring the Rich Possibilities of Tatami Culture

An exciting exhibition titled 'Speaking of Tatami' is set to take place from August 28 to August 31, 2023, at the Spiral Garden in Minato, Tokyo. Sponsored by Daiken Industries, this event is organized by the COMMOS PROJECT steering committee in collaboration with various tatami-related associations, manufacturers, and local governments. The exhibition aims to revisit the unique Japanese material and cultural heritage of tatami and present its endless possibilities to the public.

The COMMOS PROJECT was established in 2023 with a mission to rediscover Japan's material culture revolving around tatami and connect it to the future. This exhibition will focus on re-evaluating tatami's value in collaboration with stakeholders involved in the production and manufacturing of tatami materials.

The 'Speaking of Tatami' exhibition aims not only to engage tatami users but also to enlighten architects and designers about tacami's history and specifications. By fostering empathy for tatami's journey and enhancing understanding of its material properties, the exhibition strives to inspire new applications and developments for tatami in modern spaces. While tatami has been an integral part of Japanese life, many remain unaware of its history, the materials that compose it, and the craftsmanship involved in its creation.

In this exhibition, each component of tatami will be unraveled, showcasing the creative diversity that emerges from various material combinations, the wisdom and ingenuity of craftsmen, and the current relevance of tatami. Attendees will have the opportunity to touch, see, smell, and learn about tatami, encouraging a sensory re-evaluation of its allure. The ultimate goal is to engage visitors in a collaborative discussion about the future of tatami as part of their lifestyle.

Exhibition Overview

The event will feature various areas designed to educate and engage the audience:

Education Zone

An area dedicated to the history and structural components of tatami, with informative panels and tactile material samples highlighting tatami's unique features and specifications.

Installation Area

Visitors can experience a 32-tatami mat raised space showcasing different types of tatami surfaces alongside various tatami underlays, allowing them to feel and appreciate the differences in texture and seating comfort. This space will also host workshops focused on tatami.

Furniture Display Zone

This area will present tatami surfaces created by talented artists, designers, and craftsmen, as well as furniture designed for use on tatami. The aim is to shed light on the versatile applications of tatami beyond just flooring.

Special Feature: New Shapes of Tatami

With a focus on the unique qualities of tatami and its cultural heritage, the “Ikusa Evangelist,