Isamu Noguchi (1904–1988) was one of the twentieth century’s most important and critically acclaimed sculptors. This exhibition is focused on Noguchi’s international and hybrid exploration of tools and materials, mainly from the collection of The Isamu Noguchi Foundation and Garden Museum ( New York ).
As a the child of a Japanese father and white American mother, Noguchi’s journey as a user of tools would begin from a set of Japanese carpentry tools. He gained some skill in the construction of his mother’s house in Chigasaki. In Constantin Brâncuşi’s atelier he learned another style of woodworking, and in his studios in NYC, he mixed tools from many different material working traditions and many time periods, from traditional to high-tech.
His studio in Japan, where he specialized in stone and paper, is preserved with his various works, including “ AKARI ” paper lantern sculptures.

Exhibition title

Isamu Noguchi TOOLS

Date

2023 March 4 (Sat) ~ May 7 (Sun)

Venue

Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum 1F Hall

Time

9:30 – 16:30 (last admission 16:00)
＊Opening hours may have changed.

Closed

Mondays (The following day when Monday falls on a national holiday)

Admission

Adults¥700, Seniors (65 and over) / Students(College/University, High School)¥500, Students(Elementary, Junior High School):Free
＊Including permanent exhibition fee

Organizer

Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum / KOSMOS committee

Supporter

Institut français du Japon / Kobe Shimbun

Cooperation

The Isamu Noguchi Foundation of Japan,Isamu Noguchi Garden Museum Japan / The Isamu Noguchi Foundation and Garden Museum, New York / Ozeki Co. Ltd. / Villa Kujoyama / Conde House