Windowology: New Architectural Views from Japan at Japan House London

The Window Research Institute is pleased to announce the exhibition Windowology: New Architectural Views from Japan, from 1 December 2021 until 24 April 2022 at Japan House London.

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・Windowology: New Architectural Views from Japan shines a spotlight on the humble window, examining the impact they have on us every day.

・The exhibition explores the different perspectives on the world that windows offer us, considering the role of windows in disciplines such as architecture, film, craft manufacture, manga and motion.

・Visitors can walk through a full-scale replica of the 17th century architectural plan of Yōsuitei teahouse in Kyoto – also known as the Jūsansōnoseki (13-window sitting room) – renowned for having the most windows among all existing teahouses.

・ Tsuda Michiko creates a window-themed installation allowing visitors to Japan House inside, and visitors on Kensington High Street and Derry Street outside, to interact with each other, distorting the boundaries between the streetscape and the interior.

・Produced by the Window Research Institute, the only institution in the world dedicated to the research and development of windows, and leading architectural critic Igarashi Taro.

During the pandemic, for many, windows took on an entirely new meaning. They unlocked our creative and connective potential as hubs for communities to converse, artists to paint and even small businesses to thrive during lockdown.

This new-found appreciation is explored further in this multidisciplinary exhibition from Japan House London. Windowology: New Architectural Views from Japan, running from 1 December 2021 until 24 April 2022, explores the significance of windows beyond what may be considered their primary architectural function – to consider their everyday impact through architecture, photography, manga, craft production, and technology.

Curated by the Tokyo-based Window Research Institute, the only institution in the world focused on the study, design, use and impact of windows, and leading architectural historian and critic Igarashi Taro, this free exhibition looks at the ways in which windows frame our vision to give us unique perspectives on the world.

Igarashi Taro, Director of the Windowology exhibition
said: “Now more than ever, windows play a vital role in connecting us with each other and our wider communities. Allowing us to see the world outside as well as in, windows are intimately linked to our everyday lives and physical actions. The Japan House London exhibition presents an opportunity for us to introduce our work on Windowology research from Japan, and to showcase the wider cultural significance of the window across all cultures.”

Simon Wright, Director of Programming, Japan House London
said: “Hopefully this is a new experience for all: Windowology offers a glimpse into the purpose and meaning of windows in Japan. From teahouse design through to the ʻworking windowsʼ of craft workshops throughout the world, we hope this exhibition shines a spotlight on this often-overlooked element of architecture, and for visitors to explore the many ways in which windows impact their everyday lives and to open our eyes to the potential of different perspectives.”

This exhibition runs from 1 December 2021 until 24 April 2022, admission is free.