Art that Works

A long overdue celebration of objects of everyday use is currently on at the FICCI auditorium. From an inexpensive paper waste bin to a cup noodle box,the symbol of “new food culture”,and silk fabric slippers that can be easily folded and stored,95 products are on display at the Japanese Good Design Exhibition. Organised by Japan’s Ministry of Economy,Trade and Industry,the exhibition is taking place in India for the first time. “It focuses on objects that add something to the atmosphere of our homes and that we’d miss the most if they disappeared,” said Kazuo Tanaka,president of the Japan-based GK Design group to a gathering of design experts that included Pradyumna Vyas,director of National Institute of Design and fashion designers Ritu Kumar and Rina Dhaka.

“Japan is an example to the human world about the pursuit of perfection,” gushed Dhaka,as she admired a fully automatic one-piece toilet. The event also saw the launch of I-mark,a branding that seeks to define a product of good design.

Here are a few examples from the show:

Tea Pot: Designed by Ken Okuyama,it is designed in such a way that the spout cuts the flow of tea,thereby preventing dripping. No wonder,many famous hotels own several of these.

Silent Violin: It is a violin that allows the players to enjoy their music privately through headphones. Designed by Yahama,the violin doesn’t have a sound box,thereby making it light.

Nail Clipper: Stylishly designed,it has gained popularity among medical professionals.

Travel Diary: Designed by Kunal Chandak and Sanika Palkar,it enables travellers to record their experiences .

The exhibition is on till March 6.