MAKHNO Studio, known for its innovative approach to design, has unveiled KAJI GALLERY, an art space situated in Kyoto. This gallery embodies the convergence of tradition and modernity, where objects with soul and history find their rightful place. KAJI GALLERY blends Japanese aesthetic traditions with contemporary artistic practices, creating a unique environment that encourages artistry. The space is designed to surprise, inspire, and reflect the philosophy of wabi-sabi, valuing naturalness, restraint, and the beauty of imperfection.
KAJI GALLERY faces the challenge of combining substance and form, creating a harmonious environment that speaks to both the past and present. The gallery will feature unique antique finds, and the design of the space must evoke a sense of antiquity and preciousness. Each element of KAJI GALLERY is crafted to surprise and inspire visitors, adhering to Japanese aesthetic principles and embodying the spirit of lived experience. This balance is achieved through the thoughtful integration of materials, textures, and forms.
The gallery is thoughtfully divided into two distinct floors, each serving a specific purpose. The first floor houses the main gallery hall, which includes a central tea area, a green oasis, and access to a terrace. The second floor features exhibition spaces and a large lecture hall, designed to facilitate artistic presentations and discussions. This layout not only enhances the functionality of the space but also reflects the Japanese appreciation for simplicity and clarity.
Upon entering the gallery hall on the first floor, visitors are greeted by a harmonious blend of clay and wood. The use of Mazanka, a special clay application technique, combines the traditions of Japan and Ukraine, the homeland of Serhii Makhno, founder of MAKHNO Studio. The furniture pieces, such as the sturdy PYL chairs and the intricate KVARTZ ceramic chair, are handcrafted by MAKHNO Studio artisans, showcasing their mastery in creating enduring beauty. Ceramic art lights, including the iconic KHMARA lamps and the CHOVEN lamp, are more than just lighting fixtures; they are sculptures that shine, integrating perfectly into the Japanese context.
Design Spotlight by MAKHNO Studio
The gallery’s design emphasizes the use of natural materials, with all structures, beams, stairs, and ceilings crafted from wood. Vintage beams serve as display shelves, while fresh wood is used for ceiling coverings, underscoring the value and warmth of these timeless materials. Notably, the gallery avoids sharp corners and cold industrial elements, instead opting for a soft, inviting atmosphere that resonates with the principles of Japanese design.
Ascending to the second floor, visitors encounter a green oasis in the stairwell area, a nod to the Japanese tradition of incorporating small gardens within architectural spaces. This living corner is watched over by the DIDO art sculpture and talisman, a creation of Serhii Makhno. The second floor’s exhibition corridors are adorned with TETRAPOD ceramic 3D art tiles, a design that has earned the prestigious Red Dot award. These tiles introduce a dynamic and futuristic element to the gallery, bridging the gap between tradition and contemporary design.
Like a carefully crafted chawan (tea bowl), the gallery embodies the philosophy and artistry of its creators, offering a space that influences and communicates. MAKHNO Studio’s project-art experiment in Kyoto is an example of the enduring relevance of traditional principles and the power of thoughtful, intentional design.
