NAKAGIN #21

2023

Concrete, colour oxides, steel and copper

23 x 7 x 7 cm

‘Designed by architect Kisho Kurokawa and completed in 1972, the Nakagin Capsule Tower in Ginza, Tokyo stood as an iconic symbol of Metabolism, a post-war architectural movement in Japan. Comprising two interconnected towers, the modular structure featured 140 capsules, each intended for compact living or office spaces. Despite initial acclaim for its innovative design, the building faced challenges over the years and sadly it was demolished in 2022. The tower’s capsules were the main inspiration for this series of monolithic sculptures. I so wished I’d taken the opportunity to stay in one of the capsules when they started becoming available on Airbnb, but unfortunately, it wasn’t meant to be. My intention is for the spirit and energy of the building to live on through these objects. ‘ – Hayden Phoenix