TOTO GALLERY·MA will be holding a solo exhibition by architect Ryuji Fujimura titled Ryuji Fujimura: The Form of Knowledge—The Prototype of Architectural Thinking and its Application from Tuesday, July 31 to Sunday, September 30, 2018.

Ryuji Fujimura has been developing his work using an original design method that he calls the “super linear design process”, where he reflects the various project requirements in initially simple forms one by one through comparing and studying a large number of building models. In addition to conducting critical and educational activities, he has recently also been working with citizens in exploring ways to realize a more open approach to architecture in line with current times.

At the core of Fujimura’s multifaceted work lies an unwavering commitment to respond to the problems of society through finding optimal solutions informed by a collective form of knowledge shaped by as much information and as many opinions as possible.

One project in which he realized this approach is the OM TERRACE, a small public facility on the east side of Omiya Station that he brought to completion in 2017 after holding six public meetings. The rooftop terrace that appears to draw in the street is anticipated to allure to youths, be used for a wide variety of events, and contribute to invigorating the neighborhood.

This exhibition will present Fujimura’s ideas and work through focusing on the form-making processes underlying his projects. Featured will be more than 300 models that were made towards developing projects such as the OM TERRACE, chairs designed by having AI (artificial intelligence) study thousands of images, and time-lapse recordings of the construction work.

The open process that Fujimura calls “the form of knowledge” is sure to give one a feel for the architecture of tomorrow.