#Takashimaya #Aquarium #TANSAN DESIGN

Nihombashi's Window Display Transformed into an Aquarium

From June 14 to July 13, 2026, the first-floor main window display of Nihombashi Takashimaya S.C. will showcase an innovative installation titled "AQUARIUM", crafted by TANSAN DESIGN STUDIO, headquartered in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture. This exhibition forms part of a summer promotion titled “Feel! Hear! Onomatopoeia of Summer” organized by Takashimaya. The installation aims to create an ephemeral underwater atmosphere using vibrant textiles and felt artworks, inviting visitors to experience a refreshing summer escape.

The concept behind "AQUARIUM" lies in the dynamic interconnectedness of life in the ocean. It reflects on how all life originates from the sea, nourished by the ocean’s bounty as it grows, transforms, and connects to future generations. Within this serene blue world, marine creatures swim gracefully alongside the currents, carrying memories of what they have consumed, encountered, and experienced. The overarching narrative is one of life’s cycles, handed down through ages, interconnected and thriving. This epic tale is elegantly conveyed through the silhouettes of aquatic life swimming amid cool blue light.

Textile Design and Techniques

To simulate an underwater environment in the window display, various materials and printing techniques were utilized in the creation of the installation. The first layer features a highly transparent mesh material with a Direct-to-Film (DTF) print that depicts the graceful movement of marine life. The second layer incorporates sheer organza to show shadows of marine creatures and currents, enhanced by dye-sublimation printing. Lastly, a satin material representing the ocean's depths is also treated with dye-sublimation printing techniques. The combination of these different materials not only creates depth and translucency but also vividly illustrates the oceanic landscape within the window.

Additionally, large-scale sculptural felt artworks made from wool have been meticulously handcrafted and positioned in front and behind the fabric layers. These three-dimensional forms enhance the visual impact of the underwater scene, adding an immersive quality to the installation.

A noteworthy aspect of this project is its environmentally conscious approach to textile dyeing, utilizing methods that significantly reduce water consumption. This commitment not only showcases pioneering artistic expression but also demonstrates a dedication to sustainability in art and design.

About TANSAN DESIGN STUDIO

Founded in 2014 by Tomoaki Mizuno and Wakana, TANSAN DESIGN STUDIO has made a mark through its textile design expertise. Both graduates from the Tokyo University of the Arts, they further enriched their education at graduate schools of fashion and textile design. They collaborate with various brands, including LUSH, SHISEIDO, and ISSEY MIYAKE, while also developing their own textile brand,