Isamu Noguchi (American, 1904–1988) is a central figure in modern art history. Through a lifetime of progressive, socially charged artistic experimentation, he was one of the leading sculptors and designers of the twentieth century. Born in Los Angeles to a Japanese father and an American mother and raised between Japan and the United States, he defined a resolutely global artistic career, with New York as his primary base. Noguchi created an extremely wide range of works, including industrial design objects, ceramics, monuments and installations for public space, landscape designs, set designs for the stage, and sculptures in stone, metal, and other materials. His Akari light sculptures are considered icons of modern design. In Japanese, akari means ‘light’. Noguchi created a visual interpretation of this term with a series of objects made from washi paper that are both functional lamps and sculptural works, proposing a dialogue between East and West. As part of our Exhibition Exclusive, we offer the Akari scarf, a wearable design inspired by Noguchi’s work.  

If you want to learn more about Noguchi, his autobiography, Isamu Noguchi: A Sculptor’s World, is essential reading. 

Shop items inspired by Isamu Noguchi

Watch a video about the exhibition Noguchi for Danh Vo: Counterpoint: