Table Elements

Nalata Nalata is pleased to present a solo exhibition of handmade metal cutlery by Mitsuhiro Konishi, entitled Table Elements. Cutlery creates a natural connection between the user and utensil. The purpose of the utensil is to function as an extension of the hand, to deliver food from the plate to the mouth. On occasion they act as special components of a tablescape during gatherings, but often times as necessary tools for daily meals.

By its very nature, Mitsuhiro Konishi’s handmade cutlery collection is intimate. One artist, a single maker, creates an object with a clear purpose – precious in size, rich in texture, overwhelming in its delicate relationship of scale and proportion. His materials of choice, steel and brass, are elementary substances and his techniques are age-old, fundamental ways of shaping metal by one’s very own hands. Through laboriously hand hammering, forging, heating and bending, Konishi creates functional, yet aesthetically pleasing flatware.

In the works of this exhibition, Konishi developed pieces that draw from tradition, celebrating classic utensil categories, while synthesizing his background as a sculptor to inspire new forms for dinner sets and serving tools. Ultimately, the goal in producing these works is to make familiar and immaculately executed implements that are intended for everyday use.

We will also be releasing collaboratively designed metal turners exclusively for Nalata Nalata during the event: the Long Turner and Short Turner. It was an honor to work with the artisan to create serving utensils that could be at once utilitarian and beautiful to stand alongside handcrafted dinnerware. The brass handles gently taper to meet a richly textured, hand-hammered steel head, and the slots are punched in a modern pattern to contrast the rustic way in which the metals will age over time.

Friday, June 16th marks the opening reception. Mitsuhiro Konishi and his wife, Kimiko, will be traveling from Japan to attend the opening reception. Peruse the new collection with sake from the Gifu Prefecture (Konishi’s home region) and mochi by Mochi Rin. Opening remarks by Mitsuhiro Konishi will commence at 7:30pm. The works will be on view through till June 22^nd.

Explore the artisan’s studio here.

View a recap of the event here.