Since Japan and the West began exchanging ideas in the mid-19th century, Japanese design sensibilities—from elaborate kimono garments and meticulously raked gardens to lavish compositions of ukiyo-e woodblock prints—have had wide appeal across Europe and the United States. Often ornate yet minimalistic, Japanese design embodies numerous visual approaches underpinning the notion of “just right” or “just enough,” known as hodo-hodo. While no single element characterizes the entirety of Japanese design culture, many scholars attribute the spectrum of Japanese design to cultural, social and spiritual practices deeply grounded in Japan’s history that continue to be observed in Japanese design practices today. Featuring a discussion with Taku Satoh, one of Japan’s most critically acclaimed contemporary designers, alongside two internationally recognized authorities on Japanese design sensibilities, Linda Hoaglund (bilingual filmmaker and cultural producer) and Sarah Teasley (Professor of Design, RMIT University), this live webinar will explore the underlying aesthetic and cultural roots essential for understanding the essence of Japanese design.
Geo-Conversations: Nature and Technology in Architecture
AIA New York Center of Architecture open its doors to the public for a very special book launch by Alper Derinboğaz. He is founder of Salon, the internationally renowned architecture studio based in Istanbul, Berlin and recently Los Angeles known for its award-winning projects such as the Museum of Istanbul, pandemic-resistant office design Ecotone and zero-emission Villa Topos.
Pritzker Prize-winning architect Shigeru Ban is renowned for his innovative use of wood. Natural and beautiful, timber construction can also be a key tool in the fight against climate change through the creation of environmentally responsible buildings. Ban’s new book, Shigeru Ban: Timber in Architecture presents an in-depth examination of 45 of the architect’s works demonstrating the versatility of timber, from the undulating curves of the Centre Pompidou-Metz in France to the playful inversion of Japan’s Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre. At this talk, Ban examines the awe-inspiring use of wood throughout his career, shares his long history of humanitarian work, and offers insights on working toward a more sustainable future through architecture. Moderated by Matilda McQuaid, Acting Director of Curatorial and previously Head of Textiles at Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum. Followed by a reception with a sale of autographed books. Program is the official U.S. book launch for Shigeru Ban: Timber in Architecture.
Title: “Contemporary DNA” Date: 10:00 AM March 2 to 6:00 PM April 22, 2023 Venue: Friedman Benda New York Address: 515 W 26th St 1st Floor Subway: C or E train to 23rd Street Event Website: www.friedmanbenda.com
January 2023 marks the 50th anniversary of the Roe v Wade ruling, just a year after this landmark legislation was overturned by the Supreme Court. In recognition of this historic event, and in response to the damaging repercussions of the recent Dobbs decision, the Beverly Willis Architecture Foundation is convening the panel discussion, “Where Are We Now: 50 Years After Roe.“
Tokyo and New York-based Ippodo Gallery presents “Susumu Shingu: Sculpting with Wind” from October 20–December 29. The exhibition will feature the work of revered and prolific 85-year-old Japanese kinetic sculptor and artist Susumu Shingu. A philosopher at heart, the celebrated artist is a long-time collaborator with Renzo Piano and other leading architects on site-specific installations. His work can be found in museums, luxury hotels, and public installations across the globe. The gallery is located at 32 E. 67th Street on the Upper East Side.