#Japan #Tokyo #Japanese Craftsmanship #NEW KNOWS OLD #Space Art

Transforming Craftsmanship into Spatial Art

In the heart of Tokyo, NEW KNOWS OLD, led by CEO Kinuko Sekimoto, is pioneering an innovative project that transforms traditional Japanese craftsmanship into captivating spatial art. This initiative, aptly named the 'NEW KNOWS OLD Art Project', harnesses the skills of Japan’s architects and artisans while repurposing construction waste, bringing a fresh approach to environments such as hotels, restaurants, and commercial spaces.

With a successful appearance at a recent exhibition, the company has now forged new connections with manufacturers and designers, facilitating a broader dialogue within the domain of design and architecture across Japan. This burgeoning collaboration seeks to highlight the inherent philosophies and consciousness embedded within the craftsmanship, suggesting that the allure of enduring pieces of architecture stems from this very consciousness.

The focus of NEW KNOWS OLD revolves around the philosophy that true art in architecture is not solely functional but also evokes a deeper emotional response. Modern spaces have achieved aesthetic refinement yet often leave little impression on the visitor. Therefore, the mission is clear: to infuse spaces with unique narratives that resonate with their occupants, transcending mere decoration to evoke a lasting experience tied to the region, materials, and the feelings they encapsulate.

Embracing the Philosophy of 'Between'

Through the concepts of ‘間’ (ma), ‘陰影’ (shadow), ‘余白’ (negative space), and '手仕事' (handwork), NEW KNOWS OLD seeks to enrich contemporary architectural experiences. By not simply preserving old techniques or creating new ones for the sake of novelty, the project bridges the gap between the past and present. In doing so, it aims to craft beautiful environments that celebrate the intertwining of materials and the hands that shape them.

Through the 'NEW KNOWS OLD Art Project', craftsmanship is conceptualized not as isolated works of art but as integral elements of a comprehensive experience within a space. The artistry derived from traditional plastering, intricate woodworking, or the expressive qualities of charred wood are not merely functional aspects; they form a narrative, crafting memories in architecture that speak to the building's past.

Key Components of the Project

The project encompasses various essential aspects:

• - Development and proposal of spatial concepts;
• - Tailored art suggestions aligned with the venue’s character, materials, light, and flow;
• - Directing artisans in the manufacturing process;
• - Exploration of materials, dimensions, installation methods;
• - Planning and creation of wall art, fixtures, installations, and more; and
• - Designing and planning the post-installation presentation.

NEW KNOWS OLD utilizes its expertise as an architecture and interior construction firm to create a unique spatial art that articulates the ambience of its surroundings. Through an integrated design process, the project seamlessly merges architecture, art, artisan techniques, and spatial experience.

Redefining Discarded Materials

A significant aspect of this initiative addresses the abundant materials discarded at construction sites, even when they still possess potential usability. NEW KNOWS OLD reinterprets these remnants—not just as recycling materials but as vessels of historical memory that reflect craftsmanship. By collaborating skilled artisans with these otherwise lost resources, the once-discarded materials gain a new lease on life, transitioning into art pieces that add depth and narrative to the space.

Current Artistic Expressions

Key expressions currently showcased in the project include:

• - Frutatsumikata: A unique wall art technique combining plaster and foil for a textured finish that harmonizes natural serenity with light reflections.
• - Kizuki: A synergy of charred wood and metallic foil producing striking contrasts, adding depth and shadow to contemporary environments.
• - Maawai: An installation focusing on traditional woodworking techniques that adjusts the experience of light and sound, transforming space boundaries through artisan craftsmanship.

The project also champions products birthed out of leftover materials, like the KASANE, a layered stool showcasing the beauty of material memory, and the ICHI RIN, a simple vase that creates tranquil focal points in various spaces.

Future Directions and Aspirations

Looking ahead, NEW KNOWS OLD envisions its artistic endeavors enhancing various environments—including hotels, traditional inns, restaurants, and galleries—as well as collaborating with designers on unique projects. The overarching goal is not merely to decorate spaces but to reinvent them with an insightful approach to Japanese aesthetics, emphasizing sustainability while elevating the essence of design.

As the initiative evolves, plans for a permanent exhibition space for contemporary art crafted from traditional methods loom on the horizon. By fostering these connections, NEW KNOWS OLD aspires to breathe new life into forgotten Japanese craftsmanship and provide communities with enriched cultural experiences.

Closing Thoughts from Kinuko Sekimoto

Kinuko Sekimoto reflects on the intrinsic beauty of Japan’s architectural heritage, which often goes unnoticed but holds a profound impact on collective memory. She acknowledges that contemporary practices frequently overlook the value of admirable craft and usable materials; instead, she aims to illuminate these techniques and resources anew.

NEW KNOWS OLD is not just about displaying Japanese culture superficially but about deeply integrating traditional aesthetics, embodying an essence of Japanese beauty through conscious design. By transforming skilled craftsmanship and salvaged materials into spatial art, the organization endeavors to create a narrative that enriches contemporary architectural experiences. It is a journey—an invitation to rediscover the value in craftsmanship with artistry woven directly into the fabric of modern life.