MATERIALISM

AN ANCIENT JAPANESE HAND-MOLDED PAPER IS STILL A VERSATILE DESIGN MATERIAL

Since the sixth century, Japanese artisans have been producing washi—a tough, translucent paper made from the bark of shrubs or trees. Originally used for calligraphy, printing and painting, by the 17th century washi adorned lanterns that were used in religious ceremonies, celebrations, home interiors and even on fishing excursions, where candles were placed inside paper lanterns to float along the river at night.In 1952, the sight of such a scene along the Nagara River in Japan inspired Isamu Noguchi to create his Akari light collection—sculptural forms of handmade washi stretched over thin bamboo frames. While many mills now use machines to manufacture the paper, some workshops continue to make it by hand. Over the centuries, washi has proven its versatility in interior accents. Not only is it a natural wallpaper alternative, but washi screens, blinds and lamp shades diffuse light gently for a soft, tranquil glow. Washi paper lanterns are often found draped through trees and tents at outdoor soirées. "We are using white lanterns at a July wedding to set a classic mood in the tent," says event planner Jennifer Erb of Tying the Knot.

• Mulberry tree bark (kozo) is used to make 90 percent of the washi paper produced today. Kozowashi is the only washi used in official Noguchi lanterns. It was also the material chosen for the Japanese currency, the yen, because of its resilience.
• Although white washi paper lanterns are among the most popular in the Western world, in Japan they are traditionally associated with funerals and death.
• The relationship between the paper and the paper maker is thought to be a deep one, as the paper's characteristics reflect the soul and spirit of the producer.
• Ingo Maurer and Jasper Morrison are two modern artists who use washi paper (among other materials) to create Noguchi-inspired lighting.