Breaking a Stone
​Three Proposals Based on the Theme
I visited a stone quarry in Okura Mountain, Shiroishi City, Miyagi Prefecture, to conduct research through guided tours and hands-on experiences.
Dat Kan Stone is a type of volcanic rock, scientifically classified as two-pyroxene andesite, formed approximately 20 million years ago. Its most distinctive feature is the striking contrast between its rough, varied surface and its uniform charcoal-colored interior, which gradually takes on a rust-like hue over time.
I was deeply impressed by the raw power and natural beauty of this stone. In an era of rapid digitization, I wanted to explore ways to incorporate the presence and grounding energy of real materials—something fundamentally opposite to the digital world—into everyday life without disrupting its flow.
As a result, I designed three objects that highlight the unique character of Dat Kan Stone: a plate, a mailbox, and a paper knife.
Plates made of leftover materials
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During my time in the workshop, I noticed that leftover bits of stone are generated daily. Given that Dat Kan Stone is rare and highly valued, its production costs are naturally high. To ensure that its worth is not wasted, I explored ways to create products using these leftover materials.
One of my proposals is a plate that combines both hand-cutting and machine-cutting techniques. By considering the relationship between the front and back surfaces, the design highlights the stone’s unique characteristics. Beyond its function as a plate, it can also serve as an interior decorative object.
Stone mailbox and paper knife
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Stone is highly practical as an outdoor material. Dat Kan Stone, in particular, gradually turns red over time due to its iron content, and its surface color changes when exposed to rain.
The paper knife is crafted from a stone chip, with its sharp edge revealing a beautiful blend of three colors—rust yellow, red, and black.
​Tama Art University Department of Sculpture
Design - Xiang Wenyi
Photo - Xiang Wenyi