Open Call: Design with Japan

The programme features a collaboration between two Swiss designers, the ceramics brand Tajimi Custom Tiles, and local manufacturers in Tajimi in Gifu Prefecture, Japan, under the mentorship of David Glättli, Creative Director of the brand. The collaboration involves the development of prototypes, an exhibition about the project, and media presence. Design concepts are to be developed for one of the following three product categories:

1. A set of ceramic tableware
2. A series of planters and basins
3. Ceramic tiles

Programme outline: 

25.05 – 26.06.2025 Open Call: Deadline 26.06.2025 at 23:59 (CEST).
Notification of decision: Mid-August 2025

*two projects will be selected by the jury

September 2025:

Official start – the selected designers will begin the programme with an online session to introduce them to the various parties involved in the programme.

9–10 October 2025:

Opening of the first ‘Design with Japan’ exhibition in Tokyo. Kick-off and knowledge transfer with the designers from 2024/2025.

13–25 October 2025:

Immersion and design phase – two weeks in Tajimi in the workshop of Tajimi Custom Tiles and the collaborating manufacturers to research and study materials and production processes, develop coherent design concepts for the chosen product category and create corresponding samples and models.

November 2025–May 2026:

Prototyping phase – prototypes will be produced by the manufacturer based on the selected designs developed in Tajimi.

June 2026 or tbc:

Exhibition phase – the designers will return to Japan to present their objects in a special exhibition in Tokyo (tbc).

For Whom

Emerging talents -  they are considered those professional designers who were trained in a design-relevant field or who registered (as self-employed, a sole proprietorship or company) less than seven years ago.

Selection criteria: 

1. High degree of innovation, marketability and demonstrable sustainability concept in practice
2. Keen interest in ceramics, connection with the material, local industry, intercultural exchange, Japanese culture, and artisanal crafts
3. International experience (work abroad, internships, research trips, etc.)
4. Experience with ceramics is advantageous but not essential

In addition to these specific criteria, the general requirements apply: https://prohelvetia.ch/en/general-requirements/

Financial contribution:

Flat rate of CHF 6,000 per studio for travel costs and accommodation (round trip, economy).

There is a suggested accommodation option for the immersion and design phase in Tajimi (see schedule and details below).

Participation in the programme also includes:

• workshop and workspace (on site) and development of the prototype
• mediation and translation
• mentoring
• communications activities (PR and online promotion)
• exhibition costs: rent, exhibition production (scenography, visual identity, etc.), transport, customs and insurance

In addition, designers with childcare responsibilities can apply for financial support of up to CHF 250 per week as a contribution to childcare or for the travel expenses of their children and, if necessary, a carer. This also applies if the child/children stay at home and are cared for. Applicants must present a budget of all expenses in advance.

Content of Application:  

1. Statement of motivation for participating in the programme, desired impact on one’s working practice and selected object category from the three suggestions (ceramic tableware set; series of planters and basins; ceramic tiles)
2. CV and portfolio
3. Proof of status as an Emerging Talent: diploma or proof of registration (as self-employed, a sole proprietorship, or a company)

All documents are to be submitted in English.

Your application has to be sent by email latest by Thursday 26 June 2025, 23:59 pm (CEST) to mmayoly@prohelvetia.ch

Contact: In case of any questions, please contact either Marie Mayoly (mmayoly@prohelvetia.ch)