Wabi-sabi, the ancient Japanese philosophy that embraces imperfection, lies at the heart of the country's artistic and societal traditions. Today, however, it is being diluted-both by modernity and the mass-market home decor industry, which reduces it to a fleeting lifestyle trend. The authors, through their encounter with architect Kengo Kuma, illustrate his vision of modern wabi-sabi-a philosophy adapting to contemporary contexts without losing its essence. Their travels across India, Europe, Morocco, and throughout the Japanese archipelago have revealed the subtle but powerful global influence of wabi-sabi. Along the way, they met a new generation committed to preserving and renewing this aesthetic: the new ambassadors of wabi-sabi. From quiet moments with monks in teahouses to countless small, meaningful experiences, they have felt its essence-and invite readers to do the same. Part travel journal, part photographic journey, and part collection of testimonies, this work by Anne-Emmanuelle Thion, a nomadic photographer, and Thierry Grundman, traveling antiques dealer and founder of Atmosphere d'Ailleurs and the Wabi-Sabi Lab, offers a contemporary, cross-cultural perspective on wabi-sabi through encounters with those who embody it today. Text in English and French. AUTHOR: Almost 30 years ago, when leaving the world of contemporary art, Thierry Grundman undertook to go ?elsewhere?: towards other projects, towards other cultures. It was in India that THE meeting of his life took place and that the idea of a collection of unusual and rare pieces was born. Atmosphere d'Ailleurs was born. For Thierry Grundman, travelling antiques dealer and founder of the brand, it is a passion of each moment? and a transmission. Anne-Emmanuelle Thion is a passionate and sensitive photographer based in France and Gran Canaria. And above all, a traveller. As a freelancer for 25 years, she has photographed travel, decoration, lifestyle, gastronomy and portraits for the press, agencies and brands. Her inspiration also leads her to more personal and artistic creations, with an introduction to old-fashioned printing techniques. Her work, often linked to matter and gentle imperfection, is a constant search for subjective beauty. Intuitively, she heads to the island of Gran Canaria to create the Finca Gallery, a place for inspiration, (re)connection and exhibitions. During the first Wabi-sabi Lab (29 November to 2 December, 2024) she presents ?TAOLI?. 25 years of photography, search and immersion. A visual, olfactory, gustatory and sonic escape. SELLING POINTS: . Brings together stunning examples of the Wabi-sabi style . Wabi-Sabi Lab - An original and demanding event bringing together some 20 players who embody the values of wabi-sabi and/or the creative or even experimental dimension suggested by the suffix ?lab? 350 colour illustrations
