In April, Herman Miller Japan asked a group of its design partners to create a work of art based on the theme “Connected with Japan” for a charity auction that would benefit tsunami relief efforts. The auction took place on June 23 and raised $9,500 (766,000 JPY). Above is the work that we submitted. View the works submitted by other designers here.

Artist's Statement:

This piece is a whimsical expression of the communication from one side of the planet to the other. Although the US and Japan are separated by a great physical distance, the paper planes illustrate the intimate, playful dialogue between good friends. Our human connection and sense of design spiritually bridges this physical distance. The paper planes shown sailing the air currents carry our words of good wishes to Japan in overcoming hardship, and the hopeful offering of easier, happier times to come.