Noguchi Akari 1N is a collection of elegant lighting fixtures created by celebrated Japanese-American artist and designer, Isamu Noguchi. The collection comprises of over 100 different models of lamps, all expertly crafted to cast a warm, soft and atmospheric glow. The beauty of the Noguchi Akari 1N lies in its simplicity, as it is made up of a single sheet of shoji paper stretched across a wireframe that is sculpted into a unique organic form. In this article, we will delve deeper into the history, design, and cultural significance of the Noguchi Akari 1N.
History of Noguchi Akari 1N
The Noguchi Akari 1N collection was first created in 1951 by the renowned artist Isamu Noguchi. Noguchi was known for his unique, understated designs that combined Japanese simplicity with American modernism. The name “Akari” is a combination of the Japanese words “aka” (meaning “light”) and “ri” (meaning “reason” or “logic”). Together, “Akari” can be interpreted as “light emitting reason” or “the illumination that brightens one’s mind.”
Noguchi was inspired to create the Akari collection while on a trip to Gifu, in central Japan, where he observed traditional lanterns made out of washi paper. He was fascinated by the way the paper filter the light to create a warm, delicate glow. He set out to create a modern interpretation of these lanterns, using simple materials and clean lines to achieve a timeless elegance.
Design of Noguchi Akari 1N
The Noguchi Akari 1N is a masterfully crafted lamp made of a steel wire frame that has been wrapped in washi paper. The washi paper is stretched across the frame and folded into a unique, organic shape, giving each lamp in the collection a truly individual form. What distinguishes Akari lamps from other lighting fixtures is the way they diffuse light through the washi paper, creating an inviting, warm ambience that is both calming and inviting.
The shapes and sizes of the Noguchi Akari 1N lamps vary widely, from the smallest 9.75-inch model to the largest 51.25-inch model. Each size and shape has its own unique character and is ideal for different spaces, whether it be a tiny apartment or a grand hotel lobby.
Cultural Significance of Noguchi Akari 1N
The Noguchi Akari 1N collection is not just a beautiful set of lighting fixtures, but also an important example of the intersection of Japanese and American design. Noguchi himself was a blend of two cultures, having been born and raised in the United States, but spending much of his career in Japan.
Beyond its cultural significance, the Noguchi Akari 1N collection also has an extraordinary environmental impact. The lighting fixtures are made almost entirely of natural, sustainable materials and are hand-crafted by skilled artisans who have been trained in the traditional Japanese technique of washi paper making. This means that each lamp is not only a work of art but also a testament to the enduring value of sustainability and craftsmanship.
The Noguchi Akari 1N collection is a testament to the subtle elegance and enduring beauty of Japanese design. It is also an important cultural landmark, embodying the exchange and collaboration between Japanese and American design sensibilities. Whether used to bring warmth to a small reading nook or to create an ambient glow in a large conference room, the Noguchi Akari 1N is a perfect example of timeless design that will continue to inspire for generations to come.
