Disseny Hub (DHUB)

Barcelona, Spain 2014

Curators: Magda Polo and Jacqueline Okuma

Historically, Japan's geographic isolations has allowed for the development of a distinct Japanese identity. Despite this, the Japanese have always appreciated the value of learning from the outside world and adapting new ideas into their culture. This exhibition was conceived to highlight the alternating cultural values of modern and ancient Japan. "Japan: A Country of Contrasts" uses the work of artists and designers to show the strength of both tradition and modernity in Japan and how they exist harmoniously together.

Designers and artists, either consciously or unconsciously, express their collective cultural heritage in their work. Their work tells stories about their origins, values, history, and beliefs. By placing both traditional and modern Japanese art together in this exhibition, the pieces jointly show that progress towards the future can only be realized with a strong footing in the country's traditions.

This exhibition has been officially included in the events commemorating the 400th anniversary of relations between Japan and Spain.

Sadato Kurotake

Megumi Koyama

Shusaku G

Cecilie Okada

Sadato Kurotake

Jul 17, 2014 Comments: 0

Genroku kosode style, in particular, can be considered the origin of the modern kimono. This style flourished from the Momoyama period (1573-1615) to the early Edoperiod (1615-1868). Its designs have been passed down as a symbol of wealth and authority as well as a source of the unique Japanese sense of beauty. This exhibition presented folding screens reflecting this kind of beauty and sensibility which illuminate ...

GoDFaMily (Megumi Koyama & Shusaku G)

Jul 16, 2014 Comments: 0

This text will go into the summary without showing on your post page Megumi Koyama and Shusaku G  make up the GoDFaMily duo. Together, they simultaneously stimulate our sense of sight and sound to usher us into their world. The piece of music created for this exhibition is called, “A Trip to the Ethnic World,” where they synthesize traditional Japanese ...

Cecilie Okada

Jul 05, 2014 Comments: 0

Cecilie Okada, a pattern designer, illustrator, and graphic designer, represents her life journey in her work. A Norwegian by birth, Cecilie spent the early part of her adulthood setting up orphanages for disadvantaged children around the world. It is through these experiences that she manages to bring an angelic whimsy to her pieces allowing the viewer to be transported to ...