Style and Function

December 6th, 2011 at 08:00am Erica

The title of MAD’s recently opened show ‘Beauty in All Things,’ is the core design philosophy that Japanese artists have carried around for centuries. Style and function should exist harmoniously within an object, constantly inspiring and invigorating the user. This is no less true for today’s Japanese designers, who have injected an aesthetic spirit into everyday objects. Take Emiko Oki’s Trophy Tableware, a ceramic trophy consisting of a tea cup, side plate, soup cup, bowl, egg cup, tea pot and dinner plate stacked together. This image below demonstrates how Oki’s work can be disassembled from a more decorative piece into several utilitarian objects. According to the artist on her website, ‘This set of tableware has a sculptural look when displayed. The purpose of this design is to add to the dining experience, and to function aesthetically whilst not in use.’ What a clever concept!

Emiko Oki 'Trophy Tableware' 2006 Earthenware

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Another interesting example of functional design in our show is from Wasara Tableware, a complete set painted in stark white, each piece showing a characteristic wave-like curve disrupting their clean lines. This purposeful design is an elegant and memorable touch, reflecting the Japanese wabi-sabi aesthetic which asserts that imperfection is beautiful. Wasara’s pieces also display an eco-consciousness, made from reed, bamboo and bagasse renewable pulp.

Shinichiro Ogata, Wasara Tableware, 2008 Reed, Bamboo, and Bagasse pulp

Eco-friendly, beautiful and functional? These Japanese designers have thought of everything! Check out more examples from our permanent collection in our show, ‘Beauty in All Things,’ open now.

Entry Filed under: beauty in all things