#Japan #Marui Group #Hasami #ADI-FAD

Marui Group Launches 'SUKI' Creative Residency Initiative

Marui Group, headquartered in Nakano, Tokyo, is embarking on an exciting new venture called 'SUKI,' aimed at discovering and disseminating Japan's charms that resonate with international audiences. As part of this endeavor, the company recently entered into a comprehensive partnership agreement with Hasami Town in Nagasaki Prefecture, focusing on promoting tourism and revitalizing local industries through the appeal of regional culture.

Starting in September 2026, Marui Group will kick off a 'Creative Residency' program in collaboration with ADI-FAD, a prominent design promotion association based in Catalonia, Spain. This collaboration also includes local ceramic stakeholders such as Nishi-Kai Toki, which will connect designers with the rich artistic heritage of Hasami.

What is the 'Creative Residency' Program?

The 'Creative Residency' program is part of 'SUKI'’s efforts to bridge traditional crafts and regional cultures from Japan to the global stage. Two designers selected by ADI-FAD will stay in Hasami for approximately two months. During this time, they will immerse themselves in local life and research, deepening their understanding of Hasami pottery. The program emphasizes dialogue and co-creation, as designers work closely with local craftsmen and businesses to develop new products.

The works created during their residency are expected to be featured as a second series of original products from 'SUKI.' By combining different cultures and sensibilities, the initiative will showcase the renewed allure of Hasami pottery both domestically and internationally.

Program Details

• - Dates: September 1, 2026 - October 31, 2026
• - Location: Hasami Town, Nagasaki Prefecture

About ADI-FAD

ADI-FAD (Asociació de Disseny Industrial) is a design promotion association based in Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain. Established in 1960, it aims to spread and promote design culture, contributing to its development through various initiatives, including the management of the prestigious Delta Awards and international exchange programs. More about ADI-FAD here.

Designers for the Program

• - Luis Delgado Arroyo: Based in Barcelona, Luis is a product designer and engineer whose works range from ceramics to furniture and lighting. He has a unique ability to harness the beauty of imperfections, like in his 'Estel' creation featured in Milan Design Week 2026. He is currently engaged in new product development at the lighting brand Vibia.

• - Núria Carascal Corbera: A ceramic artist and designer based in Barcelona specializing in porcelain. Núria draws inspiration from urban environments and daily objects, exploring the relationship between materials, light, and experience. She actively participates in exhibitions while managing a pottery studio and conducting educational workshops.

About Hasami Town

Located in the central part of Nagasaki Prefecture, Hasami Town is renowned for its history in the production of Hasami ware, which has a legacy spanning roughly 400 years. The town is celebrated for its high production capacity through a division of labor, creating functional and aesthetically pleasing tableware that attracts attention nationwide. Learn more about Hasami.

About Nishi-Kai Toki

Nishi-Kai Toki is a ceramic trading company based in Hasami Town. Utilizing Hasami ware technology and traditions, it plans and develops tableware that aligns with modern lifestyles, including the 'Common' tableware brand designed by Yota Kakuta, which is marketed both domestically and internationally. Visit Nishi-Kai Toki.

What 'SUKI' Aims to Achieve

With the vision of creating iconic artisan brands, 'SUKI' serves as a cultural agency that strives to connect traditional crafts and regional cultures with contemporary lifestyles and international markets. Despite the rich history and stories behind Japan's craftsmanship, many regions struggle to convey their value to a global audience. To address this challenge, 'SUKI' is dedicated to co-creating solutions with creators and companies both domestically and abroad. The 'Creative Residency' initiative is one such effort to foster collaboration between Hasami's pottery producers and world-class designers, enabling the emergence of new products and narratives that elevate the value of Japanese regional culture and encourage sustainable growth.

For more about the 'SUKI' project, visit the official website: SUKI Project.

Follow 'SUKI' on social media: SUKI Instagram.