Poltrona Frau Meets Noritaka Tatehana: A Unique Exhibition in Shinjuku
From September 5 to 29, 2026, the illustrious Italian luxury furniture brand Poltrona Frau will host a special exhibition titled "Poltrona Frau meets Noritaka Tatehana" at the Isetan Shinjuku store. This exhibition marks a collaboration with renowned artist Noritaka Tatehana, known for his innovative approach that bridges traditional Japanese culture with contemporary art.
The event aims to showcase Poltrona Frau's commitment to craftsmanship and evolving design over time, alongside Tatehana's work that articulates Japan's rich cultural heritage through a modern lens. Both creators share a common ethos that values tradition while embracing modern expression, resulting in a harmonious blend of aesthetics that will resonate with visitors.
Throughout the exhibition, Tatehana's notable centerpiece, the "Heel-less Shoes," inspired by the traditional Edo-period high wooden sandals worn by courtesans, will take the spotlight. These shoes are not just innovative designs but also cultural artifacts that have caught the attention of global icons, such as Lady Gaga, contributing to their fame. They are also part of prestigious collections at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
In addition to the shoes, visitors can enjoy a series of prints titled "Heel-less Shoes Drawing #1 and #2," created using a letterpress technique. These limited-edition prints pay homage to Andy Warhol's shoe illustration series while presenting Tatehana's iconic shoe forms in vibrant colors and fluid lines, differentiating them from the exquisite craftsmanship of the original shoe designs.
Event Details
- - Location: Isetan Shinjuku Main Building, 5th Floor, Living Room / Poltrona Frau
- - Exhibition Period: September 5 (Saturday) – September 29 (Tuesday), 2026
- - Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- - URL: Visit Here
Profile of Noritaka Tatehana
Noritaka Tatehana, born in Tokyo in 1985, completed his education at the Tokyo University of the Arts, where he specialized in textile arts. His artistic philosophy, encapsulated in the concept of “Rethink,” seeks to reinterpret Japan’s traditional cultural identity from a contemporary perspective. He has gained recognition for his pivotal work, the "Heel-less Shoes," which exemplifies this transformative vision. His work spans various mediums, including sculpture, painting, installation, and stage direction, further showcasing his versatility. He has directed performances at the Cartier Foundation for Contemporary Art in Paris and held solo exhibitions at renowned institutions, including the Taro Okamoto Memorial Museum and the Yamaguchi Prefectural Hagi Art Museum.
You can learn more about his work at
Noritaka Tatehana's Official Website.
About Poltrona Frau
Founded in 1912, Poltrona Frau is a premier Italian luxury furniture brand known for its collaborations with top architects and designers. They cater to high-end venues, including hotels, museums, and luxury car interiors, embodying the essence of luxury living worldwide. Their premium leather, Pelle Frau®, is crafted from meticulously selected materials, ensuring exceptional softness and quality, which is instrumental in creating the elegant curves that define Poltrona Frau’s furniture art.
In Japan, Poltrona Frau products are available through Yamada Denki Co., Ltd. and can also be seen at IDC OTSUKA stores across the country.