Japanese artist showcases package craft exhibition in Hanoi
VOV.VN - An exhibition featuring package craft, a unique form of recycled art created from used paper packaging, is getting underway in Hanoi from July 10 to September 20, offering visitors an opportunity to explore the creative works of Japanese artist Takahashi Kazuma.
The exhibition, titled “Package Craft – The Evolution of an Empty Box”, is jointly organised by The Japan Foundation and the Japan Foundation Center for Cultural Exchange in Vietnam.
Package craft is an art form pioneered by Takahashi, who transforms discarded paper packages and cardboard boxes into intricate sculptures. Each work is made from a single piece of packaging, making full use of its original shape while preserving the printed text and graphics.
The art form draws inspiration from traditional Japanese handicrafts and embodies the spirit of mottainai - a philosophy that encourages respect for resources, minimising waste and making the most of items that might otherwise be discarded.
At the Hanoi exhibition, Takahashi presents a collection created from packaging familiar to Vietnamese consumers every day. The works feature a wide range of subjects, including Buddha statues, Japanese zodiac animals, robots and anime characters.
The exhibition space is divided into two sections. One is designed for children and families with an interactive and accessible approach, while the other explores the artistic concepts and creative process behind Takahashi's works.
A highlight of the exhibition is the "Turning Images into Paper Models" project, inspired by Japan's ukiyo-e woodblock prints and traditional kamon family crests. Through cutting, folding and paper modelling techniques, two-dimensional images are transformed into three-dimensional sculptures, demonstrating the expressive potential of package craft.
The exhibition has drawn interest from the wider public as well as young people passionate about Japanese culture. Through meticulous cutting, folding and sculpting techniques, it presents a new perspective on recycled art, revealing the limitless creative possibilities hidden within ordinary discarded materials.
Running until September 20, the exhibition is expected to become an appealing weekend destination for families, young visitors and art enthusiasts.



