the capsule

the capsule began as a message capsule created by lacquer artist Yoko Toda. Upon seeing her work for the first time, I imagined her piece sheltering my last convictions as I leave this world behind. This evolved into the idea of designing a vessel for "unfulfilled communication." I wanted to create a mystical mailbox that could deliver thoughts beyond space and time to people out of reach or even to the departed.

I had many discussions with Yoko for over a year. We explored the possibilities and limitations of handcrafted metal materials and the struggles between technology and design. We were very particular about the shape not being a tube and its ability to seal properly. the capsule (2022) is the result of our collaboration, a piece that may unfold into something new in the future.

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Here is a message from Yoko Toda.

「With the direction of Yuki Kajikawa, the message capsule underwent a happy transformation. First of all, the capsule, which had been lying down, stood up. Similar to the flame of a candle, the smoke of an incense stick or a prayer on its way to the heavens. Rather than having a practical use, Yuki's wish was for the message capsule to hold a letter conveying her feelings

I usually use tin as a material combined with a thick layer of “urushi”. Tin is soft in texture yet sturdy. The combination of metal and lacquer was used for armors and other items throughout history, as lacquer prevents metal corrosion. This time, vermillion lacquer was applied on both the inside and the outside of the capsule. The outer veneer acts as a shield while the inner layer protects the feelings. Even if the tin tarnishes over time, it remains vermilion. I believe the capsule can preserve feelings connected by the red thread, transcending time and space.」