Art exhibition in Kyoto

Kaj Franck: Timeless Finnish Design at Museum EKI Kyoto

A major retrospective of Kaj Franck, one of Finland's leading designers, showcasing glassware and ceramics that combine functionality and beauty.

Dates

Nov 3 (Tue) – Dec 20 (Sun)

Hours

10:00 – 19:30

Venue

Museum EKI Kyoto

Nearest station

Kyoto

Admission

Adults ¥1,300; high school and university students ¥1,100; elementary and junior high school students ¥500

About this event

Kaj Franck (1911–1989), often called the 'conscience of Finnish design,' believed that beautiful objects should serve people's everyday lives rather than exist simply as decoration. His Kartio glassware, Kilta ceramics, and the later Teema collection embody this philosophy. This major retrospective explores Franck's lifelong pursuit of functionality and simple, thoughtful forms. It also examines his fascination with Japanese culture, his visits to Japan, and the work of designers influenced by his ideas. Through familiar household objects such as glasses and plates, visitors can discover a design philosophy that continues to resonate across generations.

Highlights

• Kartio, the iconic Finnish glassware collection
• Kilta ceramics and their successor, the Teema collection
• The story of Kaj Franck's visits to Japan
• Works by designers who inherited and developed Franck's philosophy

Good for

For anyone interested in Scandinavian design, ceramics, glassware, and the beauty of functional everyday objects.

Good to know before you go

• The museum is open every day throughout the exhibition period.
• Advance reservations are not required. Entry restrictions or waiting times may apply during busy periods.
• Last admission is at 7:00 PM.
• The number of works displayed at the Kyoto venue differs from other stops on the traveling exhibition.
• A valid student ID is required to use student admission rates.

Pochikichi's story corner

Why Have Kaj Franck's Designs Remained Popular for Generations?

Kaj Franck was a Finnish designer born in 1911 who died in 1989. He sought to create objects that supported everyday life and addressed social needs through design. This commitment earned him the description 'conscience of Finnish design.'

His work pursued uncompromising functionality and understated beauty. Products such as Kartio, Kilta, and Teema express a philosophy centered on the people who use them, rather than on extravagant decoration or unusual shapes.

Interestingly, Franck was also deeply attracted to Japanese culture and visited Japan several times. How this influential figure in Scandinavian domestic design viewed Japan is another theme explored in the exhibition.

Objects that remain loved for decades often have qualities that go beyond appearance. When looking at Franck's work, notice the outlines and proportions of his glasses and tableware, and consider how their forms make them comfortable and practical to use.

Sources: Museum EKI Kyoto — Official Exhibition Information (Japanese)

Long ago, around here

What Was the Area Around Kyoto Station Like in the Past?

Today, the area around Kyoto Station is the city's main gateway, bringing together rail transport and commercial facilities. Museum EKI Kyoto is located on the seventh floor of the JR Kyoto Isetan department store, directly connected to the station. It provides an opportunity for travelers arriving by train to encounter art and culture.

Exploring Kyoto is not limited to visiting historic temples and traditional townhouses. Modern station buildings also contain spaces that introduce visitors to artworks and the ideas behind design. The presence of this museum reflects the contemporary role of the Kyoto Station district.

As you walk through Kyoto Station, look beyond its role as a transport hub. Follow the signs leading to cultural facilities, including the museum, and discover another side of the city's artistic life.

Sources: Museum EKI Kyoto — Official Website (Japanese)

FAQ

What is Kaj Franck: Timeless Finnish Design at Museum EKI Kyoto?

Kaj Franck (1911–1989), often called the 'conscience of Finnish design,' believed that beautiful objects should serve people's everyday lives rather than exist simply as decoration. His Kartio glassware, Kilta ceramics, and the later Teema collection embody this philosophy. This major retrospective explores Franck's lifelong pursuit of functionality and simple, thoughtful forms. It also examines his fascination with Japanese culture, his visits to Japan, and the work of designers influenced by his ideas. Through familiar household objects such as glasses and plates, visitors can discover a design philosophy that continues to resonate across generations.

When is Kaj Franck: Timeless Finnish Design at Museum EKI Kyoto?

From Nov 3 (Tue) to Dec 20 (Sun), 2026.

What are the opening hours?

10:00 – 19:30

How much does it cost?

Adults ¥1,300; high school and university students ¥1,100; elementary and junior high school students ¥500

Where is it and what is the nearest station?

Museum EKI Kyoto. The nearest station is Kyoto.

See all events in Kyoto → · This page in Japanese