The exhibition presents Takahashi Kazuma’s meticulously handcrafted sculptures fashioned from familiar paper packaging and cardboard boxes. The works span diverse forms, from traditional Buddhist figures and Japanese zodiac animals to modern robots and anime-inspired characters.
In a special nod to his host country, the exhibition debuts exclusive new pieces created using iconic Vietnamese packaging, including the popular Lotte ChocoPie box.
The exhibition also unveils Takahashi’s latest project, “Turning Images into Paper Models”, which extends his philosophy further. Inspired by traditional ukiyo-e (woodblock) prints and Japanese family crests (kamon), this series explores how flat, two-dimensional historical images can be structurally engineered into dynamic, three-dimensional forms.
Package Craft, the art of handmade box shaping from packaging, is a recycling method pioneered by Takahashi Kazuma, built on three core principles: using only one paper box for each artwork, making full use of every part of the box, and ensuring that the text and information on the packaging remain legible after completion.
This art form grew out of familiar childhood craft activities in Japan. It is not merely an artistic pursuit, but also a profound reflection of the Mottainai spirit — a philosophy in Japanese culture that values and makes effective use of all resources.
Born in 1973 in Joetsu City, Niigata Prefecture, Japan, Takahashi Kazuma was drawn to handicraft activities such as origami, origami architecture, and creating objects from discarded cardboard boxes from an early age.
He is currently President of the Japan Package Craft Association and has hosted numerous exhibitions and workshops both in Japan and abroad.
The exhibition runs until September 20 at the Japan Foundation Centre for Cultural Exchange in Viet Nam, 27 Quang Trung Street, Cua Nam Ward, Ha Noi.
