HARBOUR CUP by LAAB Architects
In a world where digital screens dominate our interactions, the artist collective LAAB has ingeniously crafted the Harbour Cup. It's not just a game, but a captivating fusion of art, science, and sport that rekindles face-to-face human engagement. The Harbour Cup is a visionary creation that reimagines the traditional table soccer experience, transforming it into a communal artwork that speaks to the heart of modern urban life.
In a world where digital screens dominate our interactions, the artist collective LAAB has ingeniously crafted the Harbour Cup. It's not just a game but a captivating fusion of art, science, and sport that rekindles face-to-face human engagement. The Harbour Cup is a visionary creation that reimagines the traditional table soccer experience, transforming it into a communal artwork that speaks to the heart of modern urban life. It's a unique experience that invites you to step away from the digital world and immerse yourself in a dynamic, interactive art form.
A Reimagined Classic.
Harbour Cup reinvents the familiar framework of table soccer by removing conventional elements such as goals and predefined teams. This innovative design compels players to engage in dialogue, negotiate their own rules, and decide whether to approach the game with a spirit of competition or collaboration. By stripping away these standard features, LAAB encourages participants to reflect on their interactions and the nature of play itself. It's an invitation to rethink what games can be: dynamic, fluid, and fundamentally human.
A Reimagined Classic.
The Harbour Cup reimagines the familiar framework of table soccer by removing conventional elements such as goals and predefined teams. Instead, players engage in a dynamic, fluid game where they negotiate their rules and decide whether to approach the game with a spirit of competition or collaboration. The game is a dialogue, a negotiation, and a reflection on the nature of the play itself. By stripping away these standard features, LAAB encourages participants to reflect on their interactions and the nature of play itself. It's an invitation to rethink what games can be: dynamic, fluid, and fundamentally human.
"A Symphony of Light and Technology"
The exceptional feature of the Harbour Cup is its captivating use of technology. The artwork incorporates solar-powered LED lights that shine along the ball's path, creating a breathtaking visual effect. These lights are activated by watertight 3D-printed consoles containing capacitive sensors, providing an impressive experience during each game, especially at night. The reflective metallic surface of the Harbour Cup interacts with the colourful lights of Hong Kong's skyscrapers, seamlessly integrating the artwork with the vibrant city skyline.
Designing for Everyone, Regardless of Age
The Harbour Cup is designed with inclusivity at its core. It consists of three pieces with varying heights and dimensions, ensuring that people of all ages and body sizes can comfortably engage with the artwork. This thoughtful approach values every participant, promoting community and shared experience. It's an invitation to put down your phone and join physical and social play, regardless of age or body size.
CeReflexión the Urban Landscape"
The Harbour Cup isn't just an artwork; it's a commentary on the urban environment and our place within it. The reflective metallic surfaces mirror the bustling surroundings of Hong Kong's harbour, integrating the piece into its locale and creating a dynamic interaction between the artwork and its environment. This reflection prompts onlookers and participants alike to consider their connection to the city and each other, fostering a deeper appreciation of the urban landscape and the role of art in it.
Inspiring Connection Through Play
The Harbour Cup by LAAB is a testament to the collective's innovative spirit and commitment to enhancing public spaces through thoughtful design. This interactive artwork is more than just a game; it's a profound social experiment. It encourages players to negotiate, communicate, and collaborate, transcending traditional gameplay boundaries. It's an inspiration, fostering real-world connections in an increasingly digital age and reminding us of the joy and significance of face-to-face interaction in our modern world.
The Harbour Cup symbolizes LAAB's dedication to creating beautiful and functional spaces, inviting reflection and inspiring connection. Through this groundbreaking piece, LAAB continues to push the boundaries of design, reminding us of the joy and significance of face-to-face interaction in our modern world. The Harbour Cup is not just a piece of art; it's a functional space that encourages interaction and fosters a sense of community.
curator
Hong Kong Science Museum
LAAB team
Otto Ng, Chun Hang Yip, CK Wong, Brian Cheung, Catherine Cheng, Larissa Ku, Raphael Kwok, Erika Fung
photography / video production
DCinematic, Leung Yau Cheong, LAAB
About LAAB
LAAB is a laboratory for art and architecture dedicated to crafts and innovations. Co-led by Otto Ng and Yip Chun Hang, the collective of artists, architects, designers, engineers, makers, and sociologists collaborate laterally to bring visionary ideas to life.
The studio believes that art and architecture can be a process of bringing people closer to nature, community, and culture. A precise blend of cutting-edge digital technology and traditional craftsmanship drives the studio’s design process of exploring inventive spatial experiences and details.
The work of LAAB includes art installations, interior, architecture, and public space. Notable projects include the Flying Window at the Hong Kong International Airport, Harbour Kiosk at the Avenue of Stars, and Hong Kong House at Echigo-Tsumari Art Field, Japan.
LAAB has been recognized for design innovations and craftsmanship by various international design communities, including Japan Good Design Award Best 100, Architizer A+ Awards, and Design Anthology Awards. In 2021, LAAB was named “The Best Design Studio” by INDE Awards.
Archipelagic Void: The 23rd Serpentine Pavilion
Serpentine is thrilled to unveil the 23rd Pavilion, "Archipelagic Void," designed by Seoul-based Korean architect Minsuk Cho and his esteemed firm, Mass Studies. Opening on Friday, 7 June 2024, and supported by Goldman Sachs for the tenth consecutive year, this innovative structure promises to be a landmark of contemporary architecture.
Serpentine is thrilled to unveil the 23rd Pavilion, "Archipelagic Void," designed by Seoul-based Korean architect Minsuk Cho and his esteemed firm, Mass Studies. Opening on Friday, 7 June 2024, and supported by Goldman Sachs for the tenth consecutive year, this innovative structure promises to be a landmark of contemporary architecture.
A Masterpiece of Design
The Pavilion, aptly named "Archipelagic Void," consists of five distinct islands, each unique in size, form, and purpose. These islands form a cohesive platform for Serpentine's vibrant live programme. Collectively, they create a dynamic space, seamlessly integrating with the surrounding park.
To mark the Pavilion's debut, Minsuk Cho will speak with Serpentine Artistic Director Hans Ulrich Obrist on opening day. They will explore the inspirations behind this year's Pavilion, Cho's architectural philosophy, and the rich history of this prestigious commission.
Innovative Structure
At the heart of "Archipelagic Void" lies a central void, surrounded by adaptable structures reminiscent of the traditional Korean madang, or open courtyard. Each island functions as a "content machine" with a specific name and purpose:
The Gallery: The main entrance features a six-channel sound installation by musician and composer Jang Young-Gyu. His piece, The Willow is <버들은> in the Summer and Moonlight <월정명> in the Autumn, weaves together natural sounds from Kensington Gardens with traditional Korean music, reflecting the changing seasons.
The Library: Created by artist Heman Chong and archivist Renée Staal, this living reference library, The Library of Unread Books, invites visitors to contribute unread books, fostering a communal pool of knowledge.
The Tea House: Situated to the east, this space pays homage to the Serpentine building's history as a teahouse from 1934 until the early 1960s before its transformation into an art gallery.
The Auditorium: The largest structure, located to the west, is designed for public gatherings and will host performances and talks. Its walls feature benches built into them to accommodate audiences.
The Play Tower: This pyramid structure, featuring a bright orange netscape, provides a playful space for visitors to climb and interact.
Engaging Programmes
The Pavilion will host Serpentine's renowned Park Nights, an annual interdisciplinary series featuring music, poetry, performance, and dance. Highlights include:
Dance Performance by Eun-Me Ahn: On 28 and 29 June, choreographer Eun-Me Ahn and her company will present a captivating dance performance.
Poetry Night: On 19 July, internationally acclaimed poets Don Mee Choi and Denise Riley, along with special guests, will deliver an evening of evocative poetry.
In addition, in July, Serpentine Arts Technologies will explore the nexus of technology, property, and ecology. The Fairclouds project, a collaborative artwork initiated by Tomás Saraceno and the Salinas Grandes communities in Argentina, will be highlighted. Visitors can become stewards of this work by purchasing a partial ownership license, supporting indigenous communities and joining an international network of stewards.
Further details of the Pavilion's live programme and events will be announced soon. As we celebrate this remarkable blend of architecture, art, and community, Please join at Serpentine South from 7 June to 27 October 2024 for an unforgettable experience.
Please visit: https://www.serpentinegalleries.org for more details.
About the Architect:
Minsuk Cho, Mass Studies. Photo © Mok Jungwook.
Minsuk Cho was born in Seoul and graduated from the Architectural Engineering Department of Yonsei University (Seoul, Korea) and the Graduate School of Architecture at Columbia University (New York, USA). After working in various firms, including OMA Rotterdam, he established Cho Slade Architecture in 1998 in New York City with partner James Slade. In 2003, he returned to Korea to open his own firm, Mass Studies.
Cho has garnered numerous accolades over the course of his career. Notable among these achievements are his first prize win in the 1994 Shinkenchiku International Residential Architecture Competition and the Architectural League of New York’s Young Architects Award in 2000 for his contributions at Cho Slade Architecture. He also received two U.S. Progressive Architecture Awards (Citations) in 1999 and 2003. His work with Mass Studies earned two nominations for the International Highrise Award (Deutsches Architekturmuseum-DAM), once as a finalist in 2008 for Boutique Monaco and again in 2010 for S-Trenue. The Korea Pavilion at the World Expo 2010 Shanghai was honoured with the Silver Award in the “Pavilion Design” category from the Bureau of International Expositions, accompanied by a Presidential Citation from the Korean government. Cho co-curated the exhibition “Named Design” at the Gwangju Design Biennale 2011, in collaboration with Anthony Fontenot under the direction of Seung H-Sang and Ai Weiwei. In June 2014, Minsuk Cho received the prestigious Golden Lion Award for the Best National Pavilion while serving as the commissioner and co-curator of the Korean Pavilion at the 14th International Architecture Exhibition – la Biennale di Venezia. Cho was recognised further by receiving the Hwagwan Medal Order of Cultural Merit from the Korean government.
Cho’s work with Mass Studies had been presented in various exhibitions, including the Venice Architecture Biennale in 2004 and 2010, the Vitra Museum travelling exhibition “Open House” from 2006 to 2008, and a solo show titled “Before/After: Mass Studies Does Architecture” at the PLATEAU Samsung Museum of Art in Seoul in 2014. Mass Studies’ architectural designs and presentations are part of the collections and archives of the MoMA (New York), DAM (Frankfurt), Art Institute Chicago, and the Mokchon Architecture Archive (Seoul). Additionally, the 5th edition of Kenneth Frampton’s canonical “Modern Architecture: A Critical History” (2020, Thames & Hudson) highlights Cho and his work in the added South Korea chapter. Minsuk Cho is also an active lecturer and speaker, participating in symposia worldwide.
Osaka Art & Design 2024
"Immerse yourself in the dynamic and colorful Osaka Art & Design Festival, slated for 2024. With 50 unique venues and 140 captivating exhibits spanning the city's major areas from north to south, you'll have the chance to explore an array of awe-inspiring artistic creations. From innovative furniture designs to cutting-edge fashion pieces and everything in between, this festival promises to showcase some of the most exciting up-and-coming creators in the industry. Prepare to be swept away on a truly unforgettable journey of art and design!"
"Experience the vibrant Osaka Art & Design Festival in 2024. Explore artistic marvels across
50 venues and 140 contents spanning major areas from north to south.
"Immerse yourself in the dynamic and colorful Osaka Art & Design Festival, slated for 2024. With 50 unique venues and 140 captivating exhibits spanning the city's major areas from north to south, you'll have the chance to explore an array of awe-inspiring artistic creations. From innovative furniture designs to cutting-edge fashion pieces and everything in between, this festival promises to showcase some of the most exciting up-and-coming creators in the industry. Prepare to be swept away on a truly unforgettable journey of art and design!"
The Osaka Art & Design 2024 (OAD) will tour Osaka for four weeks from May 29 to June 25, 2024, offering an immersive experience of art and design.
The Osaka Art and Design (OAD) festival is not just another art event - it is the largest and most diverse art and design festival that Osaka has ever witnessed! With around 50 galleries and shops spanning from Umeda to Namba, the festival offers a unique opportunity to explore the emerging artists' diverse array of artistic expressions. From furniture to fashion, there is something for everyone. Visitors can immerse themselves in the artworks and purchase pieces that resonate deeply with their aesthetic sensibilities. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to experience the best of Osaka's art and design scene!
In 2023, OAD debuted with 50 exhibitors, 150 artists and designers, and 80,000 visitors. Since then, it has rapidly evolved. This year's theme "Resonance - Expanding the Echo" aims to create synergistic interactions that unleash new creative energies. The event aligns perfectly with the upcoming 2025 Osaka/Kansai Expo, amplifying Osaka's dynamic spirit. Creators from across Japan, especially from the vibrant Kansai region, will converge at this annual gathering. The event unites department stores, art galleries, and interior shops to showcase Osaka's cultural richness globally.
One of the main events in this program lineup is the "HANKYU ART FAIR 2024" which will be held at Hankyu Umeda Main Store. The event will feature renowned artists such as Kohei Nawa, as well as up-and-coming talents like Daisuke Oba and Mika Shinagawa. It will also showcase collaborations such as Reiko Sudo's textile exhibition at Takashimaya Osaka Store, which represents Osaka's innovative spirit.
One of the highlights of the event is the official program "HIZO market" which will unveil exclusive works and prototypes by creators. This initiative aims to create a new creative market, expanding the boundaries of art and design.
“Through the vehicle with plate number OAD2024, we aim to showcase Osaka’s creative talents on a global scale and contribute to the art and design scene in the Kansai region. By partnering with us , we hope to facilitate meaningful interactions between people and artworks, fostering connections that inspire creativity. Your participation is crucial in elevating Osaka as a prominent hub for creativity.”
For more information about Osaka Art & Design 2024, please visit: https://osaka-artanddesign.com
Date: May 29 (Wednesday) to June 25 (Tuesday), 2024, for 4 weeks
Concept: Resonance—Expanding the Echo
Areas: Umeda, Dojima, Nakanoshima, Tenma, Kyomachibori, Minami-Senba, Shinsaibashi, Namba, and
other locations within Osaka City
Venues: Open spaces, galleries, shops, department stores, commercial facilities
Organizer: Osaka Art & Design 2024 Executive Committee
Osaka Terminal Building Co., Ltd./Daimaru Matsuzakaya Department Stores Co., Ltd./Takashimaya Co.,
Ltd. Osaka Store/Hankyu Hanshin Department Stores, Inc./Nankai Electric Railway Co., Ltd./Hankyu
Corporation (Administrative agent: Hankyu Hanshin Real Estate Co., Ltd.)/General Incorporated Association
Umeda 1-chome Area Management *As of April 18, 2024
Exhibitors: Creators (artists, designers), brands, galleries, shops, and other facilities/corporations from
Japan and abroad (about 50 places)
Producer: General Producer Akio Aoki (DESIGNART)
Key Visual Design: Kenta Shibano
Refining the Hyundai Customer Experience Center YOKOHAMA designed by TONERICO
The Hyundai Customer Experience Center YOKOHAMA stands as a testament to innovation and sustainability in the automotive industry. This visionary project, spearheaded by the renowned designers at TONERICO: INC., marks a pivotal step in Hyundai's commitment to delivering zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) in Japan.
The Hyundai Customer Experience Center YOKOHAMA stands as a testament to innovation and sustainability in the automotive industry. This visionary project, spearheaded by the renowned designers at TONERICO: INC., marks a pivotal step in Hyundai's commitment to delivering zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) in Japan.
The essence of this initiative lies in the careful combination of functionality and aesthetics. The project was born to transform an existing warehouse into a space that blends the industrial feel of a maintenance shop with the sleek image of electric and hydrogen vehicles (EV and FCEV). This well-thought-out approach represents Hyundai's commitment to environmental sustainability and establishes a tangible connection between the brand and its customers.
At the heart of the design philosophy is the customer. The integration of the showroom with the maintenance facility at the Hyundai Customer Experience Center YOKOHAMA is a testament to our commitment to transparency and trust-building. Customers are invited to witness firsthand the meticulous care and dedication that goes into servicing clean mobility solutions, fostering a sense of confidence and reliability.
A defining feature of the Hyundai Customer Experience Center YOKOHAMA is its emphasis on sustainability beyond just the vehicles it showcases. The choice of recyclable materials in the spatial design underscores Hyundai's dedication to creating lasting, environmentally conscious spaces. The result is a harmonious blend of functionality and eco-consciousness, encapsulating Hyundai's core values in a tangible, immersive experience.
The visionary minds behind this project, Hiroshi Yoneya, Ken Kimizuka, and Yumi Masuko of TONERICO: INC., have not just designed a space, but brought Hyundai's vision to life. Their expertise in architecture, interior design, and product design shines through in every aspect of the center, inspiring a commitment to excellence and innovation.
As Hyundai continues to lead the charge towards a cleaner, sustainable future, the Hyundai Customer Experience Center YOKOHAMA stands as a beacon of progress—a testament to the power of design in shaping a brighter tomorrow.
For more information, please visit: https://www.hyundai.com/jp/brand/cxc-yokohama
Designer Profile:
Innovating Tradition from Japan at Milano, Salone Satellite: Omi 3D Fabric and Its Illuminating Journey:
Discover the extraordinary potential of Omi 3D, a fabric that fuses the timeless elegance of traditional linen with state-of-the-art technology to create a truly innovative material with shape-memory capabilities. This is a celebration of blending heritage with modernity into a seamless product that inspires new possibilities from Japan.
Discover the extraordinary potential of Omi 3D, a fabric that fuses the timeless elegance of traditional linen with state-of-the-art technology to create a truly innovative material with shape-memory capabilities. This is a celebration of blending heritage with modernity into a seamless product that inspires new possibilities from Japan.
KURANOIE is a Tokyo-based design studio that was founded by three young and talented designers who are all 23 years old. These designers hail from diverse backgrounds and bring their unique experiences and perspectives to their work. Their creations are characterized by a profound understanding of aesthetics, functionality, and craftsmanship.
KURANOIE's designs are a reflection of the team's core essence, which is a blend of their cultural heritage, individuality, and creativity. The studio's philosophy is to break away from conventional design norms and create something that is both innovative and aesthetically pleasing.
Omi 3D is a new type of fabric that is revolutionizing the world of textile engineering. It has the unique ability to be heated and molded into any desired shape over and over again. This innovative fabric is a product of the exceptional craftsmanship that is at the heart of Omi Kamifu "Kibira", a highly respected brand known for its intricate textures that comes from the Koto region in Shiga Prefecture. Omi 3D takes traditional linen to new heights by adding more functionality and versatility to this already amazing fabric.
Omi 3D is a new type of fabric that is revolutionizing the world of textile engineering. It has the unique ability to be heated and molded into any desired shape over and over again. This innovative fabric is a product of the exceptional craftsmanship that is at the heart of Omi Kamifu "Kibira", a highly respected brand known for its intricate textures that comes from the Koto region in Shiga Prefecture. Omi 3D takes traditional linen to new heights by adding more functionality and versatility to this already amazing fabric.
The Ingenious Creation of Omi 3D:
Omi 3D is known for its captivating fabric called 'Kibira,' which boasts a sturdy texture made from hand-rolled hemp. This unique textile is produced on a specialized jibata loom and features a distinctively distorted texture, a testament to the skilled artisans who weave the hemp threads using only their fingers. Omi 3D has accomplished an extraordinary feat by incorporating resin threads into raw hemp, allowing the fabric to be shaped and molded using heat. This innovation enables individuals to create tailor-made hemp textile products.
Harnessing the transformative properties of "Omi 3D," the visionary minds at KURANOIE embarked on a design journey, culminating in a captivating series of lamp shapes. Exploring the fabric's inherent transparency, elasticity, and unique textures, each lampshade combines tradition and contemporary aesthetics, offering a radiant addition to modern living spaces.
Omi 3D represents more than a fabric; it epitomizes the harmonious convergence of tradition, innovation, and limitless possibilities. As we embark on this illuminating journey, the legacy of Omi Jofu continues to evolve, guided by the unwavering dedication of artisans and visionaries alike.
Coming up Exhibition:
Date | Tuesday 16th Apr. 2024 - Sunday 21rd Apr. 2024
Time | 9:30 ~ 18:30
Location| Rho, Fiera Milano
Salone Satellite (Pavillion 13-15), Booth No.C24
Designer Profile: (On the third picture):
KOHEI SHIRASHAKI (left) Designer/Textile/CMF
RYOGA YOSHIZAKO (center) Designer/Direction
KOKI KURAKAZU (right) Designer/Photo
KURANOIE is a Tokyo-based design studio that was founded by three young and talented designers, each with their unique experiences and perspectives. These designers, all 23 years old, bring a diverse range of backgrounds to their work, creating a rich tapestry of creativity. Their creations are a testament to their profound understanding of aesthetics, functionality, and craftsmanship.
Call for project proposals for OPEN SITE 9 by Tokyo Arts and Space (TOKAS)
TOKAS (Tokya Arts and Space) has supported artists throughout their careers through open call exhibitions, exhibitions of contemporary artists, and international fellowships. Now TOKAS is accepting project proposals for OPEN SITE 9, which will take place at TOKAS Hongo from November 2024 to February 2025.
We are looking for projects that explore new forms of expression or art/culture that reflect society's current state.
Tokyo Arts and Space is an arts center dedicated to the creation and promotion of contemporary artistic expression from Tokyo and supports a wide spectrum of artistic activities including crossover and experimental projects. Established in 2001 as Tokyo Wonder Site (TWS), an initiative for the support and nurturing of young artists, it was renamed Tokyo Arts and Space in 2017.
Tokyo Arts and Space (TOKAS) is now calling for project proposals for OPEN SITE 9, which will be held at TOKAS Hongo from November, 2024 to February, 2025 and looking for creative projects which explore new expression/art/culture reflecting the contemporaneous sociality.
[Application Deadline]
2024/3/30 (Sat) *JST
[Application Overview] Proposal must fulfill all conditions below.
(1) Projects that can be realized using a space such as: Exhibitions, Installations, Research presentations, Performing arts, Films and Audio-visual works, Lectures, Symposiums or Workshops and any other projects which are related to above or combined projects.
(2) Projects which explore new expression/art/culture reflecting the contemporaneous sociality.
(3) Projects which are well structured and have unique originalities.
[Format of presentation]
A. Exhibition (Exhibition period: about a month / Admission: Free of charge)
B. Performance (Execution period: 6 days/ Ticket price must be set)
C. dot (Execution period: 6 days / Admission: Free of charge)
[Support by TOKAS]
Please refer the application outline for the details.
(1) Providing a space at TOKAS Hongo for projects for free of charge.
(2) Providing a subsidy for productions of works and projects as follows.
A. Exhibition: 400,000 JPY
B. Performance: 200,000 JPY
C. dot: 100,000 JPY
(3) Installation support for the Exhibition projects/ Stage operation support of 200,000 JPY for the Performance projects.
(4) Transportation cost will be provided: Max 200,000 JPY for the Exhibition and Performance projects, max 20,000 JPY for the dot projects.
(5) The ticket revenue of each project will be given as artist fee. *Performance projects only.
(6) Publication of exhibition catalog *Exhibition projects only.
(7) TOKAS Residency as accommodation for those who live in places far from Tokyo. *Exhibition and Performance projects.
(8) Assisting a part of PR and management of the project.
[Venue]
Tokyo Arts and Space Hongo
2-4-16 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
[Execution Period]
Part 1: 2024/11/23 (Sat) – 2024/12/22 (Sun)
Part 2: 2025/1/11 (Sat) – 2025/2/9 (Sun)
*Closed on Mondays (except national holiday)
[Jury Members]
KISHIMOTO Kako (Director, BUoY)
KOBAYASHI Haruo (Director, blanClass)
HATANAKA Minoru (Chief curator, NTT InterCommunication Center [ICC])
KONDO Yuki (Program Director, Tokyo Arts and Space)
[Application Fee]
Free
For more information, please visit:
https://willap.jp/t?r=AAAJGAhUayNQBi.gLrAOLSgtKcqKxJTUiCdCpQ