Join us for the opening event of "walking sticks & canes", first exhibited at Triennale Milano in April 2024, now exclusively showing at Emeco House.

Friday February 21, 5-8pm

About the exhibition

"Walking sticks & canes”, is an exhibition curated by Keiji Takeuchi. First shown at Triennale Milano in April 2024, we are honored to now host this mindful and creative exploration of a universal yet understated subject that spotlights values we hold dear - function, materiality, craft and design.

“It is not possible to go back in time to the very first cane. We can only imagine it started with someone picking up a small branch, trimming off the smaller twigs, and using it for a walk in the woods. It must have been one of those primitive objects that people made on the spot as needed. As time passed, it evolved in step with social changes and cultural developments, naturally taking on different purposes and meanings. At some point, it became a symbol of power and authority or religious status and later an icon of fashion and wealth. Today, it is commonly associated with older adults, who tend to be viewed with pity. However, some have found novel and fascinating ways to express their personalities and stories through their canes, making them a source of pleasure and pride. Some people have canes that are almost self-caricatures, some completely customise them to suit their needs, and others go to great lengths to fnd a perfect match for their taste. It is a universal yet understated subject with limitless potential for exploration. This exhibition is an opportunity to share our research, showcasing eighteen examples of walking sticks and canes by designers I admire. They share their thoughts to help us broaden our general awareness of this essential and expressive tool.” - Keiji Takeuchi

Exhibition produced in collaboration with: Triennale Milano and Karimoku Official.

CESTINO by Hugo Passos
Photo: Julien Renault

Keiji Takeuchi, with UP
Photo: Masaaki Inoue

GIANNI by Marialaura Irvine
Photo: Natalia Garcia

Can't make the event but want to view the exhibition, showing until March 7? Contact us to arrange your visit.