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The age-old philosophy that embraces imperfection has long shaped the highest expressions of Japanese art.
Today, however, it is becoming an “endangered species.”
Worse still… this timeless aesthetic — one that grows richer with the slow patina of age — is being hijacked by the mass-market décor industry and used in the marketing of disposable, short-lived consumer goods: a complete contradiction.
Wabi-sabi cannot be reduced to ready-made formulas or slogans without destroying its essence.
Hence: WABI-SABI LAB
A unique, demanding event bringing together some forty participants who embody the values of wabi-sabi and/or the creative, even experimental, dimension suggested by the word Lab. A cultural cross-pollination, shaped by the discerning eyes of Thierry Grundman and Daniel Rozensztroch, two insatiable seekers. An aesthetic and scenographic stance. A manifesto that calls upon the very foundations of wabi-sabi — at the opposite end of the superficial trend it has lately become.
What it is:
A deliberate curatorial choice: a selection of brands, galleries, artists, artisans, designers, publishers, and material suppliers aligned with our intent, our vision, our affirmed tastes — and the full subjectivity our choices imply. We speak of quintessence and restraint, timelessness, imperfection, the raw, the fragile, the sensitive, the living, craftsmanship, durability, singularity, simplicity —which does not exclude a touch of sophistication, for we free ourselves from dogma and claim the liberty to take a sidestep or an unexpected path. A collective of participants will, over four days and one evening, present characteristic pieces of their universe within a curated 1,500 m2 “treasure-hunt”-style scenographic path. A harmonious selection of works, a fusion of sensibilities brought together by a coherent aesthetic, complementary worlds and purposeful synergies.
What it is not:
Wabi-sabi Lab is not a conventional trade fair with juxtaposed stands and brands lacking coherence. No gigantic exhibition halls: instead, a prestigious yet unpretentious venue. No “organisers” versus “exhibitors”, but committed participants.
Once the royal hunting grounds of Versailles, it was acquired and restored by Thierry Grundman in 2005. Now a venue for private, professional and cultural events hosting around 20,000 people annually, it also houses the 1,500 m2 showroom of Atmosphère d’Ailleurs, which for 19 years has held five annual World Antiques exhibitions open to the public.
Located 35 minutes from Paris and accessible via RER B, the estate offers parking for 150 cars, truck access, and 12 guest rooms for overnight stays.
