Isamu Noguchi (1904-1988)

     Where to find Noguchi lamps in Tokyo? Three years of admiring them and now I can't remember where I saw these 20th century paper lanterns. In 1950 American artist Isamu Noguchi came up with the design combining washi paper, bamboo and wire in response to a commission by the mayor of Gifu. His challenge was to save the paper industry against the invasion of electric lights; his solution was to marry the light bulb to the mulberry bark cover-ups. Rather than traditional shapes, Noguchi's shades are dramatic and asymmetrical like ikebana. Best thing is they fold flat for easy mailing across the world.

    Takashimaya Shinjuku offered a bell shaped knock-off in the lighting department, but the real thing must be somewhere in this town. SOS, tomodachis! "Like Kyoto gardens, Noguchi lamp shades are not as popular in this country," pointed out one knowledgeable tomodachi-san who suggested a DIY option, giving new purpose to the practice papers from shodo that I have piled up. Another tomodachi-san sent me a link to Yamagiwa, a design shop in Akihabara. Last time I visited Akihabara, the electronics part of town, was shortly after Oshogatsu (New Years) to have coffee at a Maid Cafe with Senichi-san and visitors G & P. Waitresses dressed as manga characters for the pleasure of customers pose for photos at an additional fee. On the Yamanote Line (Y 130) in 13 minutes I returned to this sleazy, youthful part of town, walked two blocks and entered the Noguchi showroom.

    July is sale time in Tokyo and everything in Yamagiwa was 20% off! Akari Light Sculptures sat on the floor and dangled from the ceiling. Making a decision was made easier when the salesman informed me that not every design was available to carry away. Instead of globes, I carried away two boxes of glob-shaped Akari. Back into the downpour that marks the end of tsuyu (rainy season), through the throngs of young men seeking Maid Cafes, in to the shelter of the JR (Japan Rail) I transported my treasures to the Manor.