New York, NY, June 21, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Kaneka OLED, a division of the Japanese chemical manufacturer Kaneka, launches their newest OLED lighting fixture, KUMIKO, designed by lighting designer Michiru Tanaka. Kumiko, named in reference to the traditional patterned woodwork found in Japanese screens, is a high-tech decorative update utilizing Kaneka OLED’s revolutionary lighting technology, enabling Tanaka to create a fully-customizable modular tile system that can be vertically-mounted on a surface or built into complex architectural designs in infinite mix-and-match combinations. KUMIKO produces a brilliant diffused light that recalls stained-glass windows when illuminated and transforms into a reflective mirror surface when powered down; a first for the design industry, the line of decorative OLEDs has applications across interiors, retail, hospitality, residential and commercial spaces. As part of the domestic launch of Kumiko, Tanaka has designed a site-specific “mirror-maze” installation at Great Jones Studio in downtown New York City in partnership with architect Thomas Kosbau of ORE Design + Technology, with private appointments beginning on June 19th.
Tanaka, known for her work at the Freer and Sackler galleries at The Smithsonian Institute, as well as Grand Central Terminal Centennial Holiday Light Show in New York and Disney World’s Epcot Japan Pavilion Renovation, is committed to using sustainable energy-efficient lighting solutions in all her projects. Her work exemplifies her goal of creating a unique symbiotic relationship between architecture and lighting experience. As a native Japanese designer living and practicing in New York, Tanaka wanted to channel both cultural identities into this product.
“Kumiko” is a Japanese term for a traditional, highly crafted piece of functional art made from wood. “I wanted to bring the spirit of this tradition into contemporary products and technology such as OLED light.” Tanaka states. “I was able to use the thinness of Kaneka's OLED magnetic module (0.33”) to achieve a product that can be hung like artwork on a wall. I also imagined my product as a solution for areas where there is limited access for natural light. I wanted to be able to add KUMIKO like adding back-lit shoji screens into any space. I carried the KUMIKO pattern through to texture the mirror when the light is off, so it’s a beautiful design element on or off.”
In the KUMIKO installation, the patterned panels mimic the movement in nature through the screens, as if KUMIKO were Shoji screens that let light move through them at different intensity at different times of the day. The installation was designed in collaboration with ORE Design + Technology, a Brooklyn-based architecture and design firm run by Thomas Kosbau who is known for his out-of-the-box solutions to complex systems. Together, Kosbau and Tanaka have created a maze of light and mirrors that creates a theatrical backdrop for the product’s debut.
About Michiru Tanaka
The lights and architecture in Tokyo, Michiru Tanaka’s hometown, inspired her to pursue a career in architectural lighting design. There she saw the power of lighting design, its effect on mood and its impact on social space at its' most magnificent. Michiru graduated from the Musashino Art University in 2002, and spent her early career in Tokyo where she refined her design techniques and characteristic style. Her design theme always carries with it the unique sensibility of Japanese lighting called "In'ei Raisan" (In Praise of Shadows). Additionally, she is committed to the goal of using sustainable energy-efficient lighting design solutions in all her projects. Now based in New York, with seven years of experience as an independent designer, Michiru has applied her design principles and styles to a distinct and diverse portfolio. Her completed projects range from restaurant installations to exhibition booths to special event lighting at internationally renowned museums as well as substantial product development and design. She continues toward her goal of creating a unique symbiotic architectural and lighting experience. Michiru is an Associate Member of the IALD (International Association of Lighting Designers), a member of the IESNY (Illuminating Engineering Society of NY), and the DLFNY (Designers Lighting Forum of NY), as well as an adjunct professor of lighting design at Interior Design Department of Fashion Institution of Technology in New York.
About Kaneka Corporation
Kaneka Corporation, a leading technology-driven chemical manufacturer headquartered in Japan, provides diversified products globally supported by a worldwide manufacturing and marketing organization.
Kaneka is dedicated to the development of world-class technology in the field of chemicals and continuously strives to maintain its leadership position through research, development, manufacturing and marketing of innovative products.
About Kaneka OLED
Kaneka OLED technology represents high-quality OLEDs offering precision color consistency and eco-friendly qualities. When on, the ultra-thin construction allows OLEDs to be surface mounted on structural walls with light that disperses widely without harsh shadows. As the OLEDs are dimmed, KUMIKO returns to being a mirror overlaid with rich patterns of reflective stainless steel, it’s glowing secret identity hidden behind your reflection. KUMIKO is composed of magnetically backed individual modules which allow the pattern to change based on your preference or mood.
Kaneka OLED 1.1mm panels, at 1.5 watt per panel, emit minimal infrared rays and no ultraviolet rays, while generating a broader spectrum of white OLED with enhanced color rendering when compared to existing lighting sources. KUMIKO affords superior stability, last longer, are more efficient and emit less heat than traditional LED bulbs. The dimmable panels are easily integrated into walls and shelving or showcased by themselves in its remarkably simple form.
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A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6a64f21f-962d-42ab-9d0a-1410a7fa30af
Attachments:
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c55b04c7-9afe-487f-9ed9-25e897645a1f