The Artistic Creation of a Giant Pine Object for Happoen's Lobby Renovation

A New Artistic Highlight at Happoen's Lobby

The renowned company Happoen, led by President Yoshinori Inoue and located in Tokyo's Minato Ward, is undergoing a significant rebranding and renovation project set to culminate in October 2025. This encompasses the complete closure of the venue from February 2025 until the grand reopening. The new main lobby will reflect the concept of "Japan's condensed aesthetic sensibility," presenting an inviting space harmonized with the rich history of Happoen's Japanese garden that has flourished over 400 years.

Among the new lobby's features is an eye-catching giant pine object, inspired by the cherished red pine found in the garden. This enormous creation is being crafted by the highly esteemed creative furniture artisan, Masayoshi Nishida, who has earned recognition as one of the "Oikawa Craftsmen" in Okawa City, Fukuoka Prefecture. To give the public a glimpse into this creative journey, Happoen has released a behind-the-scenes video showcasing the making of this magnificent piece on their official YouTube channel.

Discovering the Roots of Happoen's Japanese Garden

The roots of Happoen’s Japanese garden can be traced back to the Taisho era when entrepreneur Bosun Kyuuhara became its caretaker. A significant element that captivated Kyuuhara was a red pine over 400 years old. He mixed reverence with careful consideration when designing the garden, famously stating, “I don’t create gardens; I merely nurture nature.” As a tribute to this legacy, the current lobby decor will prominently display the red pine motif as a centerpiece.

The giant pine object signifies not only a visual complement to the lobby but a deep connection to the history and culture of the garden, aiming to narrate its beauty through seasonal decorations after the grand opening. This aspect aims to enrich the visitor experience by linking them with natural elements and tradition.

Craftsmanship by Masayoshi Nishida

Renowned for his creativity, Masayoshi Nishida's workshop features an array of unique pieces. From a chest designed to mimic the curves of nature to innovative furniture that challenges the conventional boundaries of woodwork, his creations stand out for their originality. The passion behind Nishida's work lies in a desire to create furniture that not only captivates visually but is meant to be used and enjoyed. His dedication is evident in every piece, as he strives to leave behind a legacy that showcases his artisanal skills without replicating his previous work.

In the recently launched video, viewers witness the intricate process of crafting the giant pine object. Staff from Happoen visit Nishida’s workshop and immerse themselves in the art of creation. This interaction highlights the dynamic between tradition and innovation, where every tool and method reflects a respect for the material and its history.

The Vision for the Giant Pine Object

Nishida's vision for this giant pine object is not rooted in the conventional depiction of a pine tree. Instead, he expresses a desire to create a version of a tree that captures the imagination and reflects nature’s unpredictability. “If you want a real pine, just plant one,” Nishida insists, emphasizing the importance of originality and abstraction in art. The upcoming object features intricately intertwined branches reminiscent of ropes – a testament to the artist's creative ambition and innovative approach to woodwork.

The sculpture’s completion is set for September, just in time for the grand opening of Happoen in October. This object will not only serve as a visual highlight but also symbolize the essence of Japanese beauty that Happoen endeavors to project in their renovated lobby.

Upcoming Content and Expectations

Leading up to the grand reopening in October 2025, Happoen plans to continue sharing updates through videos and storytelling on platforms like YouTube and Happoen's note. These insights will document the renovation process, emphasizing the stories behind the transformations taking place.

As a multifaceted enterprise, Happoen, located in Shirokanedai, boasts a long-standing Japanese garden rooted in history. Their approach combines the management of wedding and event services with cultural promotion, underpinning a commitment to revitalizing and sharing the allure of Japanese traditions with a global audience. Visitors and enthusiasts alike are encouraged to stay tuned for more updates as the September completion date approaches!

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