This exhibition features works in which the artist confronts the origins of his own creative process and explores new forms of expression through etching. A talk session with journalist Takashi Ikai will also be held on the opening day of the exhibition.
From July 18th (Saturday), CIBONE CASE (Ginza) will host "Impromptu," a solo exhibition by Ruka Kikuchi, the artist behind "Lue," a brand based in Okayama Prefecture that produces brass cutlery and everyday items.
This exhibition showcases works born from the desire to leave the mark of one's own hands on creations, a feeling that arose during many years of making everyday items, against the backdrop of the artist's journey in craftsmanship, which began with helping his father with his work—the very foundation of his creative process.
(Left) Plate 04 ¥24,200 (tax included) (Right) Bowl 02 ¥48,400 (tax included)
The flowing lines and shapes created using etching techniques are not intentional decoration or self-expression, but rather the result of accumulated inherited techniques and a desire to be a part of nature, just like the materials themselves. The familiar yet unfamiliar feeling you get when you hold it, and the quiet presence that lies somewhere between them, brings a new perspective to your life while remaining close to it.
(Left) Moabi 05 ¥55,000 (tax included) (Center) Kokutan 01 ¥12,100 (tax included) (Right) Kokutan 02 ¥66,000 (tax included)
Building upon the solid skills cultivated through everyday products, the artist has embarked on a new path of expression. This exhibition showcases where he stands today, the culmination of that journey.
From left: Naoshi Ikai and Ruka Kikuchi
On the opening day of the exhibition, July 18th (Saturday), a talk session will be held from 3:00 PM featuring journalist Takashi Ikai, who has a close relationship with Mr. Kikuchi. Mr. Ikai will discuss the artist's origins and creative process from the beginning to the present, highlighting his strong commitment to craftsmanship and his flexible thinking that is not bound by theory.
<Author Profile>
Ruka Kikuchi
Born in Okayama Prefecture in 1983. Began making accessories under her father's guidance in 2000. Started making cutlery in 2006. Launched her brand, Lue, in 2010. Currently, she produces cutlery, accessories, lifestyle goods, and art objects.
Hisashi Ikai
Born in Nagoya, lived in Paris, and currently resides in Shinjuku. After majoring in journalism, she moved to France. Upon returning to Japan, she began working as a freelance editor and writer. She conducts interviews both domestically and internationally, focusing on design and crafts. In addition to contributing to publications such as ilmm, Casa Brutus, and Elle Decor, she also collaborates with creators and manufacturers as a planner and copywriter.
CASE: 85
Impromptu
Ruka Kikuchi / Lue
Dates: July 18 (Sat) – August 2 (Sun), 2026
Time: 10:30-20:30
Location: CIBONE CASE (Ginza)
104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo-ku, Ginza 6-10-1, GINZA SIX 4F
2-minute walk from Exit A3 of Ginza Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line/Marunouchi Line/Hibiya Line (direct underground passage available).
Talk event: Saturday, July 18th, 3:00 PM
*Entry may be restricted.
Lue HP: https://www.lue-brass.com/
About CIBONE
Based in Tokyo and Brooklyn, CIBONE is a lifestyle editorial store that proposes unique and appealing items selected with a free-spirited approach, embracing the concept of "relationship with objects" over a long period of time. CIBONE collages together the passion of people creating things and the connections between people. CIBONE not only "selects" things, but also embraces the idea of "creating" them, constantly questioning "newness" and "uniqueness" in the face of a changing world.
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CIBONE CASE (Ginza)
Address: CIBONE CASE, 4F, GINZA SIX, 6-10-1 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0061
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[Welcome Co., Ltd.] Press Release
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