#Japan #Tokyo #craftsmanship #JOHN SMEDLEY #Aki Tsuji

A Unique Exhibition of Art and Craftsmanship

The remarkable collaboration between the renowned British knitwear brand, JOHN SMEDLEY, and the talented Japanese woodworker, Aki Tsuji, will be showcased in a captivating exhibition titled "moving form." This event will take place in two of JOHN SMEDLEY's stores; the first from March 7 to 15, 2026 at their Futako-Tamagawa location in Tokyo, followed by a subsequent exhibition from March 20 to 29, 2026 at the Kyoto store.

The exhibition evokes a sense of tranquility and comfort that engages the mind and senses. Featuring Aki Tsuji’s artworks, which are imbued with minimalism and timeless elegance, the space beautifully illustrates the marriage of Japanese craftsmanship with British heritage. The mobile artworks swaying gently within the shop are designed to capture the emotions of the moment, similar to the exhilarating feeling one gets when first trying on a piece from JOHN SMEDLEY’s exquisite collection. Visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in the contemporary atmosphere that exudes serenity and joy.

Aki Tsuji, who hails from Sapporo, Japan, began her journey in woodworking during her university studies. After gaining experience in a furniture company, she established her practice in Sapporo, where she creates mobiles, utensils, and objects. Tsuji expresses her creative process as an exploration of materials, aiming to bring out the inherent charm and presence of wood. She sees the creation of each mobile as a balance between intentional crafting and allowing for spontaneity.

This exhibition marks the first collaboration between JOHN SMEDLEY and Aki Tsuji, bringing forth an engaging showcase of both established and newly crafted works by Tsuji. The settings created in partnership with the knitwear highlight a modern yet effortless sophistication, inviting visitors to experience a space filled with graceful beauty. It reflects how Tsuji’s pieces resonate with the comforting quality that JOHN SMEDLEY's knitwear exudes, symbolizing a harmony between the two cultures.

An Invitation to Celebrate Craft

The exhibition not only represents the synergy of British and Japanese craftsmanship but also offers an invitation for guests to experience an atmosphere filled with delightful serenity. Tsuji hopes that visitors will leave with a sense of comfort accompanied by a playful sense of joy. The whimsical and dynamic nature of her mobiles encourages personal reflection and emotional connection within the gallery space, inviting all who enter to lose themselves in the ethereal beauty of the craft.

This collaboration exemplifies JOHN SMEDLEY’s commitment to showcasing unique craftsmanship in Japan by regularly organizing events that bring attention to the artistry of local artisans, fusing their innovative designs with the brand's storied British heritage which spans over 240 years.

Join Us

If you're in the Tokyo or Kyoto area, don’t miss this exceptional opportunity to view and purchase these beautifully handcrafted pieces that communicate the warmth and creativity behind each work.

Where to Find the Exhibitions:

• - JOHN SMEDLEY Futako-Tamagawa

March 7 - 15, 2026
1F, Tamagawa Takashimaya S.C.
3-17-1 Tamagawa, Setagaya, Tokyo
Phone: 03-6447-9208
Open: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM

• - JOHN SMEDLEY Kyoto

March 20 - 29, 2026
1F, Shinpukan
586-2 Karasuma-dori, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto
Phone: 075-708-7878
Open: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM

For inquiries regarding the event:
JOHN SMEDLEY
Visit: johnsmedley.jp
Aki Tsuji
Visit: akitsuji.com
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