In Boxes

Nalata Nalata is pleased to present In Boxes, a group exhibition of Japanese craft boxes.

Boxes… they come in various shapes, textures, colors and materials. We use boxes in large and small scales on a daily basis – to transport our lunches, store food, offer gifts, and to organize all kinds of items from stationary to reading glasses. There is a fascinating quality to boxes because of the mystery of what they contain or the potential of what they can hold. The possibilities within such a simple object are endless. The thrill of discovering the purpose of a box or what is inside, is what interests us the most.

In preparation for NYCxDESIGN week, we’ve brought together a selection of finely crafted containers from Japan for this upcoming exhibition. Amongst some of the objects on display will be cedar green tea boxes, lacquered food storage containers, glass display cases, hand painted ceramic jewelry boxes, and a collection of hand carved bento boxes.

We are also delighted to announce the inclusion of a collection of wood business card holders and tea cases by the renowned Hokkaido based craftsman, Norio Tanno. Made of exotic wood species, these are amongst some of his rarest works. As the artisan nears closer to retirement he strives to pass down his knowledge and skills in woodworking to his son, Masakage Tanno, who is also well known for his intricate wood boxes, most notably the award winning one-push pen holder called the Free Case.

Every object featured in the exhibition will have a specific usage but are all connected by the fact that they are in essence used as a container suitable for everyday use, to be filled with objects, food, personal accessories, or whatever odds and ends one desires. It is our hopes that viewers will find special meaning in each intricately made work and realize that within each piece lies limitless potential that makes it more than just a box.

View a recap of the event here.