#Japan #Tokyo #DAIKEI MILLS #A Tree Art #Keisuke Nakamura

A Tree Project: A Journey into Nature and Art

The bustling Ginza district is set to host a remarkable art initiative titled "A Tree," aimed at showcasing the beauty and significance of the Yoshino cedar, a tree deeply embedded in Japanese culture. Spearheaded by designer Keisuke Nakamura and his firm DAIKEI MILLS, this project is entering its second phase in Autumn 2025 and combines nature with the creativity of six talented artists, creating a unique avenue for expression and discovery.

The Vision Behind "A Tree"

The project started in April 2025 and hopes to draw attention to the journey of the Yoshino cedar from the forest to furniture. It opens a dialogue about materiality, craftsmanship, and the relationship between urban life and nature. Nakamura seeks to merge artistic creativity with functional design, where a single tree can transform into various furniture pieces or architectural forms. In this phase, two pieces will be unveiled in three series over two years—with the first launch occurring in October 2025.

Collaboration with Contemporary Artists

As part of this collaborative endeavor, six artists from both Japan and abroad will interpret the Yoshino cedar's essence, drawing inspiration from its history, environment, and local culture. Each artist will contribute their unique perspective, enhancing the interaction between art, nature, and urban life. Some of the prominent creatives include:

• - Siin Siin: A Tokyo-based designer known for exploring materiality and form within urban spaces. Their initial piece incorporates a blend of traditional techniques and contemporary aesthetics, focusing on the sensory experience of wood.
• - KUO DUO: A South Korean duo with a penchant for innovative design solutions. Their work, titled KIRI KABU, transforms the notion of tree stumps into sculptural furniture, inviting users to engage with the subtleties of nature in urban settings.

An Invitation to Discover

The "A Tree" project is not just about aesthetics; it's a thoughtful exploration into how art and nature can coexist harmoniously. The installations will be strategically placed within the GINZA SIX commercial complex, encouraging visitors to engage with the artworks physically and emotionally.

A Deeper Dive into the Experience

Moving forward, the project's second phase has evolved significantly, particularly in how it will interact with the public. The installations will act as platforms for conversations about environmental sustainability and artistic expression. Nakamura shares, “We are eager to celebrate how each wooden piece can spark curiosity and facilitate interactions among visitors, transforming their experience into something profound.”

Upcoming Phases

The next phases will continue throughout 2026, featuring contributions from international talents such as Rio Kobayashi from the UK and Fabien Cappello from Mexico. Each artist's work will encapsulate their interpretations of the Yoshino cedar and its cultural narratives. Participants can expect to be intrigued by their unique perspectives, promising a blend of craftsmanship, technology, and artistry.

Conclusion

The "A Tree" project by DAIKEI MILLS exemplifies a shift towards integrating nature within urban artwork, where the physical, tangible elements pay homage to their roots and the environment. As we move closer to unveiling these artistic masterpieces, the anticipation is palpable. This evolution of the project invites everyone to stroll through, reflect, and uncover new stories emerging from the synergy between art and nature, sparking a dialogue that resonates within our urban landscapes.