Nezen

We are pleased to present an exhibition of futons and bedding by Iwata, a futon maker founded in Kyoto. For nearly two centuries, Iwata has produced bedding with a focus on materials and how they perform over time. Rooted in traditional futon making, their collection centers on natural fibers such as cotton, linen, camel, and down, selected for how they breathe and regulate temperature. A short film of Iwata’s workshop is available here.

Exhibition Dates:
May 16 – May 31, 2026 (Wednesdays, Fridays-Sundays)

Opening Reception:
Saturday, May 16, 1:00–5:00 PM
Arichika Iwata in attendance

In Japan, sleeping low to the ground has long been part of daily life. For some, futons are laid out in the evening and stored away in the morning, allowing rooms to shift in use throughout the day. This way of living creates a closer relationship between the body, the floor, and the materials themselves.

In New York, the collection is shown in a different context, where beds are typically fixed and elevated. The exhibition looks at a lower way of sleeping, and how these materials might be used in the home. We welcome you to experience the full setup at our gallery for a limited time.