(1904–1988)

Isamu Noguchi born in Los Angeles was one of the twentieth century's most important and critically acclaimed sculptors.

Born to an American mother Léonie Gilmour, a writer and editor living in New York City and his Japanese father Yonejiro Noguchi, a poet. Between the ages of two and thirteen Noguchi lived in Japan, returning to Los Angeles attending high school. An internationalist, Noguchi travelled extensively throughout his life, working across studios in Japan and America.

Noguchi did not belong to any particular movement but collaborated with artists working in a range of disciplines and schools and sought opportunities to venture into the mass-production of his designs. His celebrated Akari light sculptures, although crafted of traditional materials, are an example of this. 

Following a visit to the city of Gifu, Japan in 1951, Noguchi developed a bond and deep connection working with Ozeki, the traditional manufacturer of Japanese lanterns used for centuries within Buddhist temples and ceremonies. Noguchi employed the same traditional craftsmanship and techniques, the Gifu method of construction, to create his AKARI light sculptures of washi paper bamboo and steel that are collapsible, weightless and blend the world of sculpture with functionality. 

Isamu Noguchi's desire to bring art into everybody's  home warms a CIBI heart. An appreciation of how the objects we surround ourselves influence how we feel. 

CIBI loves the simple task of drinking a glass of water as an opportunity to experience a moment of joy. With a hand blown usuhari glass in hand, a lifestyle can grow from a simple collection of moments. Noguchi wished to create a sculptural art piece to enjoy everyday at home. 

Crafted of simple materials, washi paper, bamboo and steel, the light evokes the way a candle is lit behind a shoji screen in traditional Japanese homes.

A humble soft light that brings happiness into the spaces we live, creating a new unique experience. Winter Light Isamu Noguchi invites you to experience the immersive world of Noguchi's Akari Light Sculptures. Cocooned within a papered space grounded with the beauty of a traditional tatami floor.

CIBI invites you to remove your shoes and walk within an installation of Noguchi's masterful AKARI Light Sculptures. Observe the glow cast upon your body below Melbourne's winter light, passing through hand made delicate washi paper. Experience the subtle bounce of the tatami floor underfoot and its warm scent. Count the folds of washi paper under Noguchi's watchful design, forming beautiful geometry of circles, ovals, triangles, rectangles and beyond, these are the shapes we recognise and appeal to our hearts, this is where smiles are created.

Listen to Noguchi's words and create your own stories, discover a favourite shape, remember a favourite room at home and enjoy this unique moment in your day, as part of your lifestyle.

The exhibition is open until 24 August 2025.
We hope to see you at CIBI.