UPDATE: MONO MAKERS PROGRAM – Sigrid Calon & Shohei Kubo

Today, we’re excited to share an update on the project by Dutch artist Sigrid Calon and Shohei Kubo from KANMAKI. Together, this creative pair has been exploring innovative ways to merge Sigrid’s distinctive artistic vision with KANMAKI’s expertise, rooted in Japanese tradition. Their journey exemplifies the heart of the MONO MAKERS PROGRAM: celebrating cross-cultural collaboration and a shared passion for craftsmanship.Stay tuned as we unveil more about their incredible work and the ways they’re bringing Dutch and Japanese creative worlds together. We can’t wait to share their progress and achievements with you in the coming period!
Exciting developments are underway in the collaboration between Dutch artist Sigrid Calon and Japanese pigment foil expert Shohei Kubo! The duo has been hard at work blending their artistic visions and expertise, and we’re thrilled to share a sneak peek of their journey so far.

Update from Sigrid:
“We had a productive and inspiring meeting at my house and studio—it’s so practical having everything in one building! Shohei introduced me to the intricacies of his pigment foil, and together, we explored how it could align with my artistic practice. While we experimented with new colors, we decided to focus on the classic gold foil, a shade that beautifully reflects its Japanese heritage. Perhaps we add a fluorescing pink to cross bridges, but we are still thinking about that. This collaboration has also led me back to a discovery I made in 2008, which I’m now transforming into a new tool that allows customers to create their own artwork using our combined ingredients. And there’s more: we’ve brought a fantastic third collaborator on board, and all the production will happen in Japan. Some elements are still under wraps, so stay tuned for surprises ahead!”

Update from KANMAKI:
“We’re currently working on two exciting projects: a color selection foil sample book by Sigrid for business clients (B2B) and a foil case study for general customers (B2C). This collaboration has become a platform for connecting leaders from both countries, including Mr. Ogami and Mr. Kondo, who are contributing washi paper and box designs, respectively. Looking ahead, we’re preparing for the Kyoto Gift Show this March, where these collaborative creations will debut in Japan for the first time! The event will also feature talks by MONO MAKERS winners, Shohei Kubo and Tsuyoshi Kato. It’s a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the connections forged through this Japan-Netherlands project.”

What’s Next?
The collaboration between Sigrid and KANMAKI continues to unfold with incredible creativity and dedication. Their work promises to bring a fresh perspective to traditional craftsmanship, blending the rich heritage of Japanese materials with Dutch innovation. We can’t wait to reveal more about their progress in the weeks ahead. Don’t forget to mark your calendars for March and join us at the Kyoto Gift Show for the unveiling of their creations!