Les Benjamins 100 Yıllık Dostluğun Kültür Meyveleri

We embark on a journey to explore the iterative world of craft, to pick the fruits of a deep-rooted friendship and to cross the invisible bridges that unite cultures. Les Benjamins introduces a groundbreaking collaboration with artisans from both countries to honour the 100-year friendship between Turkey and Japan. In the midst of the unique character of the two countries, we are presented with a modern interpretation of shapes, forms and motifs that draws on traditional techniques.

The cultural profundity of artisanship can be deeply felt in the atmosphere of both countries. As one of the purest, rawest forms of creativity, each handmade piece brings its own stories. The passion to produce, the precision for perfection, the unique texture of handcraftsmanship bring the two cultures together in a joint medium.

The story behind the project’s evolution from dream to reality is based on a journey. A journey from Tokushima to Tokyo… Bünyamin Aydın, the founder and creative director of Les Benjamins, discovered this shared passion with Japan during the dialogues with Japanese artisans, whom he experienced in their own studios and made personal connections.

Our lens is set on several authentic artisans. Indigo expert Buaisou transforms Les Benjamins’ iconic carpet monogram into a capsule collection from his own perspective, while Tokyo-based illustrator Makoto Yamaki brings a modern twist to traditional design. The Japanese zori slippers by Kyoto-based Gion Naito, the American service by Shokuraku Asano with Anatolian carpet symbols embroidered on obi fabric and the Japanese tea box by Kakaido with original rose tea from Wabara Rose Farm are definitely worth seeing. Inspired by Turkish tulips and Japanese Sakura flowers, artist Keiko designed a handmade Leica camera strap to express friendship, while Jay Tsujimura blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with street and manga otaku influences to serve Leica-inspired jewellery. In collaboration with Kyoto-based incense producer Sanga, the authentic scents of Istanbul meet us in the form of incense. Of course, backgammon is also present on this table, painted with urushi lacquer technique by Tsutsumi Asakichi and presented with an extraordinary interpretation.

As for the Turkey leg of the exhibition, there will be carpet weaving by Çınar Halı, paper carving by Ersin Yıldızhan, two different Iznik tile sets consisting of plates and mugs by Turkish-American graffiti artist Futura 2000, and a vase and exhibition plate by Mehmet Gürsoy. Also on display are fascinating miniatures by Taner Alakuş and calligraphy by Savaş Çevik, while Alparslan Babaoğlu creates an homage to Ertuğrul with his marbling technique.

The scope of the project is not limited to the collection and artefacts. The programme includes dinners and panel discussions with Max Mackee (founder of Kammui), Japanese handicraft workshops and Turkish art installations, a meditation session with Zen priest Toryo Ito and an indigo dyeing workshop with Buaisou at Soho House Istanbul. At Les Benjamins’ flagship store in Nişantaşı, there will be workshops on Turkish and Japanese art such as ikebana (the Japanese art of flower arrangement) and a quilt exhibition.

For those who want to experience the project, the exhibition will be open to visitors at Les Benjamins Nişantaşı store on Saturday 14 September at 16.00 and will continue to be exhibited on 14-15 September. In addition to the artworks, special products will be available at the store for both days. Visit www.lbcraftweek.com for detailed programme schedule and registrations.