Yukiko Kitahara’s work is a beautiful fusion of two worlds: the soul and resilience of her adopted home in Seville and the delicate care of her Japanese roots. This unique blend manifests in her approach to design, where she combines traditional craftsmanship with a deep, mindful understanding of nature and simplicity. At the core of her philosophy is the Japanese concept of "teinei na seikatsu," which translates roughly as "live neatly." This idea encourages us to slow down in our fast-paced, everyday lives, taking moments to create spaces of calm, peace, and harmony. Yukiko believes that in this hectic world, it’s vital to pause and reconnect with our inner selves and our environment, fostering balance and intentional living.
Yukiko’s primary collection, "Use and (do not) throw away," is a powerful commentary on our modern consumption habits. The collection is a striking series of porcelain pieces designed to mimic everyday single-use objects, such as plastic cups, milk cartons, and paper trays. These items, which are often discarded after one use, are transformed by Yukiko into delicate, long-lasting porcelain works of art. She elevates these seemingly ordinary objects by adding artistic and decorative elements, merging manmade and natural forms to create pieces that are both functional and thought-provoking.
The collection challenges our disposable culture and invites us to reconsider our relationship with objects that are often used and discarded without a second thought. Through her designs, Yukiko aims to inspire a shift in consumer behaviour, encouraging us to value sustainability and mindfulness in the things we choose to use. By reimagining throwaway items as beautiful, enduring pieces, she fosters a deeper awareness of how our everyday choices impact the world around us, prompting a reflection on the importance of durability, functionality, and beauty in the objects we bring into our lives.
Ultimately, Yukiko Kitahara’s work is a call to rethink our approach to materialism and waste, encouraging a more thoughtful, conscious way of living that balances aesthetics with environmental responsibility. Her porcelain pieces not only provide us with functional, artistic objects but also offer a gentle invitation to live more intentionally, with care and respect for both our personal spaces and the planet.
