LIBRARY
図書室
Photo: Haba Yoshitaka in the Library at Japan House London © Christopher Fernandez
The Library at Japan House offers a new approach to appreciate and engage with books, by the way books are displayed, and through bookshelf exhibitions curated by Haba Yoshitaka of BACH. A book specialist in Japan, Haba is revolutionizing the way books are displayed and curated and has helped bookstores in Japan successfully champion paper books in the digital era.
One aspect of the Japan House Library is the changing programme of book displays throughout the year. The current installation explores the Mingei (‘Folk Crafts’) Movement which developed from the late 1920s in Japan. Through a selection of books and artwork, the display tells the story of the Movement and introduces its key figures including Yanagi Sōetsu, Hamada Shōji, Kawai Kanjirō and the English potter Bernard Leach.
The current mingei 'folk craft' display will be extended specially to coincide with London Craft Week (8 –12 May 2019), so guests can enrich their knowledge on Japanese craftsmanship. For more information about our events in partnership with London Craft Week, please check our What's On page.
Haba Yoshitaka
Haba Yoshitaka is a Book Director and representative of BACH, as well as an associate lecturer at Waseda University and Aichi Prefectural University of Fine Arts and Music. In order to create opportunities for people to have greater access to books and pick up unknown books, Haba produces shop floors, library displays and reading areas that connect book stores and different industries.
His recent works include Wacoal Study Hall Kyoto (a venue that comprises a school, library, gallery and co-working space), ISETAN The Japan Store Kuala Lumpur and Japan House São Paulo. Haba is a book connoisseur, his love of books goes beyond book curation to include writing and editing.