| Born in Tokyo. After working for Shigeru Ban Architects, Masako Ban was active as a graphic designer. In 2001, she began designing accessories through self-education in London and established "acrylic" in Tokyo, 2003. In 2005, her first collection is selected for the MoMA Design Store, New York, and in November of the same year opened "acrylic shop" in Tokyo. "The National Museum of Modern Art,Tokyo" ... Industrial products that incorporate modern design have no flavor or smell. Selected and stamped by a manufacturing process and refined to eliminate unnecessary elements, they epitomize a pure, universal orientation that is only partly hidden. The jewelry designed by Masako Ban incorporates many common elements with industrial products. Circular and square forms gracefully and simply adorn, nothing less. The combining or lining up of these basic shapes show a truly fresh look. The regularity of the rows are rhythmical and despite their to-a T inorganic symmetry, there is a certain vivaciousness. It seems that the feeling sensed when wearing jewelry is expressed in code form. Before entering the world of jewelry, Ban worked in the graphic design sector. The graphical and fun style she developed from that time is very evident in her current work. However, to fully realize three-dimensional expression, inspirations at a two-dimentional level are not sufficient. What makes Ban's work so captivating is her own deep interest in her raw materials. Using a technician to neatly link the material and desired image, she is raising the accuracy of her work "sensors seeking like minded people." |
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| Collaboration | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Gen Kagawa: production Professional model/mold maker. His manual finishing technique gives acrylic a peculiar texture and depth. Tomoko Nakamura: bag production Younger sister of Masako. A unique collaboration is realized through her experience in theatrical costume design. t.c.k.w. : lacquerware manufacturing supervision ( http://www.ubushina.com/ ) Delicately ties together the traditional Japanese craftsman with the creator. |
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Awards |
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Wallpaper* Best Design Award 2007 "Best Jewellery", U.K. |
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| Exhibitions | ||||||||||||||||||||
"Katachi" flow, London, U.K. (2006) "Japanese Art Jewelry Today" "The National Museum of modern Art, Tokyo (2006) "Katachi" Museum fur Angewandte Kunst Frankfurt, Germany (2007) Gallery WA2, Tokyo (2005-) Gallery Nishikawa, Kyoto (2007) |
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