Two design heavyweights of the late 20th century get mashed up in this latest show, which opened in early February at 21_21 Design Sight in Tokyo.

Ettore Sottsass-Shiro Kuramata
“Miss Blanche” (1988) by Shiro Kuramata

Ettore Sottsass-Shiro Kuramata (2)
all images courtesy of exite.ism

Ettore Sottsass (1917 – 2007) of Italy and Shiro Kuramata (1934-91) of Japan, both of whom have had far-reaching impacts on industrial design in their respective countries and beyond, are posthumously reunited in this retrospective of their work.

Ettore Sottsass-Shiro Kuramata (5)
“Carlton” (1981) by Ettore Sottsass

The show, which not only provides tons of eye candy for fans of the post-modernist approach to industrial design, examines the relationship between the 2 men, which began suddenly in 1981 coinciding with the founding of Sottsass’ “Memphis Group.” Although clear stylistic differences can be immediately recognized, the 2 men shared an underlying theme and ideaology, which begins to emerge as you progress through the exhibit.

Ettore Sottsass-Shiro Kuramata (7)
“How High the Moon” (1986) by Shiro Kuramata

Not familiar with Shiro Kuramata? Check out our post on him we wrote back in ’08.

Ettore Sottsass-Shiro Kuramata (6)

One of the major highlights of the exhibit are 20 never-before-seen works by Sottsass, recreated based on drawings, specifically for this show.

Ettore Sottsass-Shiro Kuramata (4) Ettore Sottsass-Shiro Kuramata (3)
“Kachina” series inspired by drawings done by Ettore Sottsass

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KURAMATASHIRO ETTORESOTTSASS
21_21 Design Sight (GMAP)
2011.2.2 – 5.8
11:00 – 20:00 (closed on Tuesdays)
1000 yen general admission