ITAYA SPIRIT Happy Santa Claus - A Santa Claus who brings happiness -

[Hiroyuki Maeda x Nakagawa no Mori x UNGA PLUS] ITAYA SPIRIT - The Story Connected by Miyakichi Itaya, a Merchant from Otaru Nakagawa-machi, located in northern Hokkaido, is a town blessed with abundant nature, with 87% of its total area covered in forests. Centered around the Teshiokawa River, which flows north-south, the town features crescent-shaped lakes forming gentle curves, preserving a pristine waterfront landscape. One place that retains the vestiges of the original landscape from the time of its development is "Itatani." During the Meiji period, this area was owned by Miyakichi Itatani, a merchant from Otaru who played a key role in the modernization of Hokkaido, and was opened up by settlers. Inheriting the spirit of these pioneers, we deliver the story of Miyakichi Itatani through handcrafted items made by Hokkaido artisans using lumber harvested from "Nakagawa no Mori" (Nakagawa Forest). This project connects the history of Otaru and Nakagawa-machi, allowing us to contemplate their shared past, understand their points of connection, and build a future through interaction with people living in the present.

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This Santa Claus is the result of a collaboration with Hiroto Maeda, a woodworker from Sapporo. Made from oak trees grown in "Nakahawa no Mori," this wooden Santa Claus has a dignified presence and beautiful appearance. The colors are available in three types: natural, red, and black. This wooden Santa Claus is carved using a saw and chisel, allowing you to feel the craftsmanship. The warmth of the wood is conveyed through the wood grain that remains on the surface. This Santa Claus figure is eye-catching with its soft colors and beautiful wood grain. The shiny brass buttons add a nice accent. This will be delivered in this UNGA↑ original box. These warm Christmas ornaments blend beautifully with the natural scenery of Nakagawa-cho, and Santa Claus brings happiness.

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Natural, Red, Black Approx. W24 x D24 x H217mm Oak, brass Natural: Uncoated Red: Water-based polyurethane paint Black: Carbonized finish *Because each item is handmade, the size and shape may vary slightly. *ITAYA SPIRIT is a project undertaken in collaboration with Nakagawa-cho, based on the 2022 Otaru City 100th Anniversary Commemorative Sponsored Project "ITAYA SPIRIT - Vessels that Mark Time - / Concurrent Panel Exhibition ~The Story of Otaru Seen from the Itaya Forest in Nakagawa-cho~".

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After graduating from a vocational school, I worked in furniture manufacturing in Higashikawa-cho. In 2020, I became independent and started designing and manufacturing furniture. Using wood as the main material, we combine various materials such as bamboo, rattan, stone, and metal, using each in the most appropriate place, while bringing out the unique characteristics of each. While cherishing traditional craftsmanship, I strongly believe in leaving behind things that I find beautiful. I am dedicated to creating products by pursuing what can only be achieved with that specific material.

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We will deliver the history and culture of Otaru along with the craftsmanship of UNGAPLUS.