Handcrafted Fabrication of the Akari Light Sculptures

Ever since Isamu Noguchi first designed the Akari Light Sculptures, they have been handcrafted at the Ozeki workshop in Gifu, Japan.

To create the ribbed shape, thin bamboo rods are stretched across the original wooden form designed by Noguchi. Then washi paper is cut into strips and painstakingly adhered to the bamboo ribbing. After the drying process, the wooden form is removed and the lantern can be collapsed flat. This video highlights the skill and expertise of Ozeki’s artisans.