Works

Overview
The Expo Exhibition Project is a project to create an aluminum kumiko lamp for exhibit at the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo. The beautiful kumiko art we witnessed in Kyoto is reinterpreted in a modern way and transformed into aluminum using precision machining techniques. The 280mm diameter, 430mm high shade is comprised of 906 aluminum components machined to a precision of ±0.001mm, assembled with micron-level fittings without the use of screws or adhesives. The base combines traditional Kurotani washi paper with highly transparent resin, creating a warm glow that captures the texture of the paper. Approximately 90% of the waste generated during the manufacturing process is recycled, embodying environmental considerations and the “mottainai” spirit. This work, born from the fusion of traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology, will convey the appeal of Japanese manufacturing to many visitors at the Expo.

Purpose of the Project:
This project aimed to create new value and excitement by combining tradition and cutting-edge technology. Learning from Kyoto’s traditional crafts, we utilized precision cutting and resin techniques to reconstruct the beauty of Kumiko work using modern materials. The delicate nature of aluminum, a difficult-to-process material, was highlighted through light, and the design was conceived with the aim of showcasing this on the global stage at the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo. Furthermore, as a contribution to the local community, we will continue our “Open Factory” initiative, which opens our factory to the public, contributing to the dissemination of technology and the development of young talent. Our goal was to widely communicate Japan’s traditions and the future of manufacturing both domestically and internationally through the exhibition.

Responsibilities:
Planning, design, coding