Gifu, Japan

Stainless steel wires were placed at 100-mm intervals in two huge sheets of washi 7400mm*H2700mm and 5300mm*H2700mm in size. The wires are attached to the ceiling and the floor to support the washi. In this way, the washi can be thin and light, yet free-standing. There are window-like openings in several places to arouse curiosity above what lies beyond the washi.

Kyoto, Japan

When used as an interior decor material, washi is usually employed to create an environment within a room, but in this structure, washi materials were used for the first time to produce an urban environment. The washi and glass are joined so that if the glass is broken the fragments will not scatter. This combination of materials also prevents fading and condensation. This surface was processed to be non-reflective so that the surrounding objects are not reflected in it, which allows the washi to retain its original texture. At night, the lighting is computer-controlled to produce a sensation of movement.

The size of this work is 11000mm*H2000mm. It took ten people nearly one month to produce it. Paper mulberry fibers with the stems still attached were used to enhance the contrast, and water was splashed onto dripped on it to make holes here and there. Through the dramatic play of strong and weak light, this work expresses much emotion and feeling. The production method makes possible the dynamic use of such structural materials as stainless steel wires, acrylic pipes, and steel frames inside the paper, greatly expanding washis potential.