Amin Abbas

DUBAI: Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), in collaboration with FRAME Select Shop, launched Takumi Next: Essence of Japan, which is an extraordinary showcase of Japanese craftsmanship as it hosts a pop-up store featuring a curated selection of products from 26 Japanese companies.

This project involves Japanese producers who excel at the art of creation, utilizing local resources such as crafts, traditional products, and household goods that will lead the next generation of Japan.

Their products present the highest quality mastery products made in Japan, with a strong background in traditional techniques and a rich cultural context behind the works.

The pop-up store, happening at Dubai Design District until March 31, promises to highlight the finest example of Japan’s renowned craftsmanship, spanning a diverse array of disciplines including ceramics, woodwork, advanced metalwork, and glassmaking. 

Dubai’s Consul-General IMANISHI Jun attended the opening ceremony and was pleased by the quality of the handcrafted products that are being featured at FRAME.

“I’m very happy that the crafts of the next generation of Japanese artisans will be showcased at Dubai Design District, where many young Emiratis gather in Dubai. I hope that people will pick up the products and witness the excellent quality of Japan’s local traditional crafts. If young Emiratis like our products, it will be very encouraging for young Japanese craftsmen and will strengthen the ties between Japan and the UAE,” Imanishi said.

This project introduces the new generation of Japanese artisans, as they use their rich cultural heritage and strong background in traditional techniques to utilize the local resources efficiently and sustainably, producing handcrafted goods of exceptional quality and artistry, to answer the needs of the modern world with a distinct Japanese spirit.

“We are excited to see how the Dubai market will respond to these exceptional products,” OTA Takahisa, Business Development Director of JETRO Dubai, said.

The term ‘Takumi’ holds significant cultural weight in Japan, representing individuals who have achieved a high level of mastery and expertise in their craft. With centuries of tradition and innovation behind them, these artisans are revered for their dedication to precision, quality, and attention to detail.

Woodwork holds a prominent position among the showcased crafts, with artisans demonstrating their mastery over this natural material.

Visitors can expect to encounter executive decorative items and household items. In addition to woodwork, the pop-up store will feature an impressive array of ceramics, including elegant vases, plates, and cooking pots.

Advanced metalwork and glassmaking techniques will further round out the offerings, with visitors treated to a showcase of precision-engineered metal objects and executive glassware. Whether it’s an intricate metal sculpture or delicate glassware, each piece is a testament to the ingenuity and skill of its creator. 

For design enthusiasts, collectors, and anyone with an appreciation for the finer things in life, the Japanese Takumi pop-up promises an unforgettable experience filled with beauty, inspiration, and the timeless appeal of Japanese craftsmanship.