Welcome to the inaugural blog post of ARTLAB TAKUMI. I’m Midori, the founder and director, and I’m honored to share the story behind this venture. ARTLAB TAKUMI was born out of my passion for Japanese culture and my desire to preserve the artistry of its traditional crafts while creating connections with the modern world.
The Challenges Facing Japanese Artisanal Craftsmanship
Japan is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and unique artisanal traditions. Yet, these traditions are under threat. The number of craftspeople has been declining dramatically, with many artisans aging and fewer successors to carry on their work. Employment in traditional Japanese crafts has dropped by almost 70% from the late 1970s. Additionally, many master craftspeople today are beyond the age of 70, highlighting the urgent need for generational succession.
The economic value of traditional crafts has also significantly decreased. Output of traditional craftsmanship declined from 540 billion yen ($4.8 billion) in 1983 to 96 billion yen ($870 million) in 2016, reflecting a substantial reduction in market size.
These statistics are not just numbers—they represent a cultural heritage that could be lost if we don’t act to preserve and adapt it to modern times.
The Birth of ARTLAB TAKUMI
Growing up in Japan and having lived in the Middle East for over a decade—including Lebanon, Jordan, and now the UAE—I have developed a deep appreciation for both regions. This unique perspective inspired me to create ARTLAB TAKUMI, aiming to introduce Japanese culture and craftsmanship to the Middle East and foster connections between these rich cultural landscapes.
Our name reflects our mission: “Takumi” (匠) refers to master artisans whose skills have been perfected and passed down through generations. Our curated collection features handcrafted pieces that showcase Japan’s artisanal heritage, combining timeless techniques with contemporary design to inspire and elevate modern living.
More Than Just Objects
Each item in our collection is more than a functional object—it’s a story. These handcrafted pieces bring creativity, relaxation, and joy to daily life. From dining ware that transforms your meals into moments of celebration to decor that adds a sense of harmony and elegance to your space, our products are designed to inspire.
A Vision for the Future
Our journey begins with honoring Japanese artisans and their craft. But this is only the beginning. At ARTLAB TAKUMI, we envision collaborations between Middle Eastern creatives and Japanese artisans, producing unique works that blend cultural heritage with fresh perspectives. Tradition is not just about preserving the past—it’s about evolving it for the future, with new inspirations and innovations.
Join Us in Celebrating Craftsmanship
Through this blog, I’ll share stories about Japan’s culture, the artisans behind our products, and updates on our journey. Together, we can preserve and celebrate this heritage, creating a legacy that continues to inspire.
Thank you for joining ARTLAB TAKUMI on this exciting adventure. Let’s celebrate tradition, innovation, and the beauty of craftsmanship.
