Tōzai collection
Tōzai is a chromatic collaboration between Kukka and kiten.kyoto, realised within the Mono Makers Program. The collection explores the interplay between East and West, ritual and rest.
From this collaboration, the Hikizome Knot Bag and Roketsu-zome Knot Bag were developed and are now available at MONO JAPAN STORE.
Laura Luchtman (Kukka), the textile and surface designer at atelier Kukka, is known for her innovative and colourful designs. She bridges craft and industrial production, creating contemporary designs based on tradition. Having explored Japan and delved into its culture, she has developed a profound admiration for its aesthetics and customs.
KatouKen Flag Shop, established in 1950, specialises in producing flags, 'noren' (traditional Japanese shop curtains), and similar items, believing that their products become symbols for their customers, carrying both history and hopes for the future. Committed to preserving and nurturing this cultural heritage, the company launched the lifestyle brand kiten.kyoto in October 2023 under the direction of Tsuyoshi Kato, who studied product development and branding at an artisanal studio in Kyoto. Backed by KatouKen Flag Shop's traditional craftsmanship and commitment to stand by those who wish not to compromise, kiten.kyoto proudly continues the KatouKen legacy, offering products that provide a little more convenience with an extra touch of excitement.
About the MONO MAKERS PROGRAM
This collection was created within the MONO MAKERS PROGRAM, an initiative by MONO JAPAN in collaboration with NN Life Japan.
The program brings together Dutch designers and Japanese makers, creating opportunities for cross-cultural collaboration and the development of new products. By combining different perspectives, materials, and techniques, each project explores new possibilities at the intersection of Dutch design and Japanese craftsmanship.
