Crafted World, a travelling exhibition arriving in Tokyo in March, is a showcase of LOEWE’s progressive approach to fashion and craft over generations
Photography courtesy of LOEWE featuring Anthea Hamilton, Helmet for The Squash, 2018
Words by Jessica-Christin Hametner
The perception of craft and technology as opposites – one rooted in tradition, the other in innovation – has long existed. But in today’s digitised world, those boundaries are becoming increasingly blurred. Opening in March, LOEWE’s Crafted World brings this idea to life, showcasing how centuries-old techniques can coexist with contemporary design.
Tokyo’s Harajuku (原宿 in Japanese) district plays host to Crafted World, the heart of the city’s fashion, streetwear and kawaii culture. Conceived in collaboration with architecture firm OMA, the exhibition invites visitors on a journey through time; from the house’s origins as a Madrid-based leather-making collective founded in 1846 to its place at the forefront of contemporary fashion.
Following its debut in Shanghai in 2024, this next chapter in Crafted World’s international tour is especially meaningful – with the opening of a dedicated space in 1973, Japan was the first country LOEWE expanded to outside of Europe. Since then, LOEWE has continued to engage in a rich cultural dialogue with Japan.
Photography courtesy of Loewe featuring Taylor Russell’s custom LOEWE look at the 2024 Met Gala celebrating ‘Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion’ at he Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York
Dedicated to the joy of making things by hand, from the ateliers of Spain to the contemporary designs gracing the Paris runway, visitors will step inside the creative universe that has shaped LOEWE’s recent collections, including collaborations with Japanese animation Studio Ghibli and Kyoto-based ceramic duo Suna Fujita, founded by artists Shohei Fujita and Chisato Yamano.
Crafted World Tokyo places special emphasis on Loewe’s Japanese connections. Visitors can discover a specially curated series of works and architectural interventions highlighting the house’s collaborations and cultural projects across Japan and beyond.
It spotlights projects, such as the LOEWE Foundation’s support for Kyoto’s Ōnishi family, who have been crafting ceremonial Kama tea kettles for over 400 years, alongside works by renowned Japanese artisans, including Tanabe Chikuunsai IV, Moe Watanabe, and 2019 winner Genta Ishizuka. Artist collaborators from LOEWE’s annual Milan Design Week showcase, such as ARKO, Hafu Matsumoto, and Jirō Yonezawa, further complement the exhibit.
Photography courtesy of LOEWE featuring Loewe Fall Winter women’s runway collection, 2024
A celebration of craftsmanship and creativity without borders, Crafted World spans continents and decades, revealing LOEWE’s commitment to the handmade. As the Spanish fashion house continues to bridge tradition and innovation, Crafted World serves as both a tribute to its heritage and a vision for the future of craft. More than an exhibition, Crafted World is an invitation to experience, engage and appreciate the beauty of things made by hand.
Crafted World Tokyo will be on view from 29 March to 11 May, 2025 — 9am-8pm
6-35-6 Jingumae
Shibuya-ku Tokyo 150 0001
The exhibition entrance is free but visitors must reserve a ticket
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