tokujin yoshioka: water block + kou an glass teahouse

‘water block’ by tokujin yoshioka at the 54th venice biennale
image © designboom

on display at glasstress 2011, a collateral exhibition of the 54th venice biennale is a selection of work by tokujin yoshioka
including an optical glass bench entitled ‘water block’ and a model of the japanese designer’s latest architecture project,
‘kou-an-glass teahouse’.

(left) overall exhibition
(right) details of model
images © designboom and © tokujin yoshioka

originating from the architectural plan of the ‘transparent japanese house’, first presenting in 2002, ‘kou-an-glass teahouse’
is a natural extension that incorporates iconic characteristics of japanese culture and symbolism.
while the full scale work is set for completion in 2013, the model of the tea house in 1/10 scale visualizes and develops an
understanding for the form, scale and detailing of the work. drawing from the japanese conception of nature, the structure
utilizes sensory realization and spatial perception to produce an appreciation of nature’s intrinsics and beauties.
the final product, one that recognizes the practices and process of a traditional tea ceremony, aims to embody a kind of
microcosmic space, where the surrounding environment is felt and understood. 

(left) the bench and scale model on display
(right) detail of bench
images © designboom and © tokujin yoshioka

also on show is ‘water block’, a bench that was originally presented in 2002. constructed from an optical and textural glass produced
from a platinum mold, the object features a dynamic and fluid shape that reflects light and responds to its surrounding environment.
often used in space shuttles, the material provides a defined aesthetic that dominates and ultimately characterizes the otherwise
simple and minimal object.

(left) designer tokujin yoshioka
(right) model of teahouse
images © designboom and © tokujin yoshioka

detail of water block bench
image © tokujin yoshioka

glasstress
is a collateral event of the 54th international venice biennale, which is now its its second year after it debut in 2009.
conceived by adriano berengo, the contemporary art exhibition collaborates with prominent artists and designers from around the
world to showcase their talent and creative expressions.