SUNSHOWER
In the bustling heart of Design Miami/, amidst the cacophony of creativity and innovation, there existed an oasis of serenity—an ethereal realm where nature danced in harmony with human ingenuity. This was Sunshower, my latest endeavor in collaboration with Lexus, a manifestation of my deep-rooted connection to Japanese culture and the timeless allure of the natural world.
When the Design Miami/ curatorial director Aric Chen and curator Maria Cristina Didero approached me about working on the Sunshower installation, they already had a vision—a vision rooted in the evocative theme of “SUNSHOWER” and its rich tapestry of Japanese tradition and folklore. For creative souls like us, it can sometimes be a daunting task to follow a preconceived notion, but I saw it as an opportunity—an opportunity to infuse their story with my own cultural lens, to breathe life into their narrative with the spirit of Japan.>>
Year
2019
Client
TOYOTA LEXUS USA
Curator
Aric Chen, Maria Cristina Didero
As I delved deeper into their vision, I found myself captivated by the story they had crafted—a story that resonated deeply with my own heritage. Inspired by the Japanese concepts of omotenashi and engawa, they sought to create a space of hospitality and connection, where the boundaries between inside and outside blurred effortlessly. It was a narrative that spoke to the very essence of Sunshower, and I knew that I had been entrusted with a profound opportunity—to bring their story to life through my artistry and imagination.
Drawing inspiration from the traditional Japanese concept of indoor-outdoor living, I envisioned Sunshower as a modern interpretation of the wooden deck—a space where the boundaries between inside and outside dissolved effortlessly. Curved screens, reminiscent of the see-through paper screens found in traditional Japanese houses, became the canvas upon which I painted my dreams.>>
But Sunshower was more than just an installation; it was a sanctuary amidst the chaos—a tranquil refuge where weary souls could find solace and rejuvenation. In the heart of Miami, amidst the whirlwind of design and innovation, it stood as a testament to the power of collaboration and the enduring allure of nature’s beauty.
As the installation took shape, I marveled at the contrast between my organic approach and Lexus’s polished aesthetic. While striving for technical precision, I intentionally left room for the unpredictable beauty of nature to unfold—a decision that, I hoped, would create a striking juxtaposition, a symphony of harmony and contrast.>>
Technical Director
Yutaka Endo
And so, when the doors of Sunshower finally opened to the world, it was with a sense of pride and wonder that I beheld the reactions of those who entered. For within its tranquil embrace, amidst the gentle hum of conversation and the soft patter of rain, lay the promise of new beginnings and endless possibilities—a testament to the enduring power of creativity to transcend cultural boundaries and touch the human spirit.
Motion Graphics
Hiroshi Ouchi (Wow)
Sound
Aya Nishina
“Lexus presents The Sunshower by Nao Tamura”
“Sunshowers the phenomenon of rain during sunshine have been a source of mystery and amazement all over the world. In Japan they are associated with the legend of the fox wedding which is said to take place during sunshowers and is considered a good omen and portent of prosperity and a good harvest.
For Design Miami/ 2019 Lexus has responded to the fair’s theme of Elements: Water by commissioning designer Nao Tamura to create an immersive multimedia installation that evokes the wondrousness of this natural outdoor phenomenon. Featuring Lexus’s LC 500 convertible the installation—curated by Design Miami/ Curatorial Director Aric Chen and prominent Milan-based curator and editor-at -large of ICON DESIGN Maria Cristina Didero—reinforces the brand’s commitment to omotenashi (hospitality) takumi (artisans) and the indoor-outdoor philosophy of engawa for which “nothing is accidental.” Guests will be invited to experience The Sunshower, relax in the space, use its charging stations, and sample Ooho, the innovative new water capsules made of edible seaweed extract.”
EVENT
DESIGN MIAMI
Date
Dec 3-8, 2019
