Project
the Omou Bench Project – A bench that reminds us
–The circle of life–
What is the difference between “木”(Ki: wood) and “ 樹”(Jyu: tree)”?
This project started with that question.
「The character '樹' (Jyu) does not simply refer to wood as a material;
it signifies that the tree is filled with life and rooted to the ground.
Each and every single life.
The earth, the trees, the people who cut down the trees, the people who make the benches,
the people who sit on those benches, and the people who are in front of them......
By sitting on a bench, we contemplate those "lives".
Through the bench, the thoughts and feelings of those involved in this project transcend time and space,
connecting and passing on their wishes and emotions.
Together with the people of Osaka Prefecture
We will conduct the following activities
action01
Creating Benches
Using Osaka's Wood
Using local wood – "Considering" the region
In fact, 30% of Osaka is covered in forests. By using local timber, we honour those who have nurtured the trees, those who process them, and reflect on the past and future of Osaka's forests.
Utilising Every Part of the Tree ー “Honoring” the Life of Trees
Rather than using only usable materials, we wondered if we could use every part of a tree, embracing its natural characteristics―including knots and stains―as unique expressions of its individuality. Respecting trees as living beings is a key design consideration.
action02
Experiencing and sensing the forests of Osaka
Touching and Using Wood in Daily Life ー “Thinking” of the Forest
We have prepared programs, such as wooden spoon-making workshops, where you can connect with Osaka’s trees and forests through sensory experiences in daily life. It is also an opportunity to think about how we can sustain Osaka's forests for the future.
action03
Installing the Benches at the Expo site.
Then Distributing Them Across Osaka
Benches to be installed at the Expo site ー Connecting "thoughts" from Osaka to the world
The benches will be installed at the Expo site. A 2D barcode will be installed on the bench so that the "thoughts" of this project can be shared with visitors to the venue.
Providing " the Omou Benches" in the Community
After the Expo, we will identify locations in Osaka where the “Omou benches” can remain in use, allowing people to sit and reflect on different aspects of life. We will work with the local community to explore opportunities to encourage reflection on life, ensuring that these connections continue to grow.
action04
Sharing Our Thoughts Through Media
Dissemination via web media ー Expanding the Reach of Our "Thoughts"
What does 'the cycle of life' truly mean? In addition to the cycles of benches, forests, and daily life, we will also think together about what 'the cycle of life' means to us and launch a web media platform to share these ideas. By thinking about it, we hope to expand this idea further and pass it on to someone else.
Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan, A Special Program for the Expo Site Operation Participation
「Co-Design Challenge」selection
the Omou Bench Project – A bench that reminds us –The circle of life-
| Operation | H2O RETAILING CORPORATION |
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