From March 25 to April 17, a travelling international exhibition, Japanese Design Today 100, will be on display in the Hall of the Art Academy of Latvia, offering a comprehensive overview of contemporary Japanese design culture, aesthetics, and philosophy. The exhibited objects cover a wide spectrum — from graphic design to iconic products, from masterful craftsmanship to technology design. The exhibition has been organised in collaboration with the Embassy of Japan in Latvia and the Japan Foundation, which promotes Japanese art, culture, and design worldwide.
The exhibition Japanese Design Today 100 brings together approximately 100 design objects, most of which were created after 2000, while also highlighting significant trends that have their roots in 20th-century Japanese design traditions. The exhibition includes household items, furniture, graphic design works, technology products, packaging design, toys, and other everyday objects, revealing design as an integral part of the Japanese lifestyle. Internationally, the exhibition has already been shown in various countries and has attracted widespread interest among both design professionals and the wider public, as it not only presents objects but also explains design as a cultural mindset.
Japanese design is highly regarded worldwide for its balance between functionality and aesthetics. It is based on simplicity, precision, and respect for materials — qualities rooted in traditional craftsmanship and philosophy. The use of natural materials, minimalism, and a human-centred approach play an essential role, where objects are created with the user experience and long-term quality in mind.
The exhibition also highlights Japanese design’s characteristic ability to combine tradition with innovation. Many exhibits demonstrate how traditional materials — wood, paper, ceramics, and textiles — are interpreted in the language of contemporary design, integrating modern technologies and new manufacturing solutions. This approach reveals the Japanese design philosophy, where beauty arises from function, simplicity, and harmony with the environment.
The exhibition Japanese Design Today 100 will be on view in the Hall of the Art Academy of Latvia (Kalpaka bulvāris 13, Riga) from March 25 to April 17. Opening hours: Monday–Friday, 10:00–18:00, with a break between 14:30 and 15:00.
Viedokļi