CREATIVE CRYSTAL
GORDON LAM heads to Tokyo to check out the latest mind-expanding Cartier exhibition
at the entrance to the venue, where a giant clock tower (that’s more than 100 years old) counts time backwards. This symbolises a journey back in time to the origins of matter. We began with the “Prologue” in the Space of Time section, which comprises a selection of mystery and prism clocks. These highly skilled works of horological craftsmanship use optical illusions and light to great effect, often with the hands of the clock dials appearing to be floating with no connection to any mechanism. The movements are usually hidden within the base or by other surrounding decorations.
In Chapter 1: Colours and Material Transformation, we explored how Cartier works with materials, be it metals or stones, using its exceptional savoir-faire in order to create the most innovative designs. The most outstanding pieces that my eyes feasted on had to be the incredible tiaras created by the maison, along with the huge numbers of astounding high-jewellery pieces displayed on naturally designed wooden blocks, created by NMRL.
Following that is Chapter 2: Forms and Designs, which focuses on “Essential Lines” and “Spheres” – in essence, it analyses the maison’s eternal quest for pure lines and forms. “Harmony and Chaos” sets exactly the right mood; Sugimoto and Sakakida transport visitors to ancient ruins by using layers of giant broken cement bricks that take the forms of display units.
Louis Cartier saw the world differently than most people and his vision brought together a variety of cultures and civilisations. By putting his energy into accumulating original works of art and literature from around the world, together with his creations, Chapter 3: Universal Curiosity showcases his curiosity and his immense interest in cultures, as well as the native flora and fauna of foreign lands. These created inspirational designs from countries and regions including Japan, China, India, the Middle East, Egypt, Africa and Latin America.
To celebrate the opening of this special exhibition in Tokyo, Cartier organised a cocktail party at Tokyo Kaikan, where I was more than happy to be reunited with my Cartier family from Paris as well as Cartier CEO Cyrille Vigneron. To my surprise, I also got the chance to see a performance by one of my favourite dancers, Lil Buck (@lilbuckdalegend), who I have admired for years. Also performing on the night was Taiwanese-Australian violinist Ray Chen.
Our whirlwind trip ended with a private tour of the Enoura Observatory in Odawara, which is about a two-hour drive outside of Tokyo. This is a real statement-maker and showcases one of Sugimoto’s defining works – and I have to say, hands down, it is a true masterpiece.