Terumi Saito
The Noguchi Museum Shop presents works by Terumi Saito (b. 1993, Mishima, Shizuoka, Japan), a New York-based sculptor and designer.
Saito’s work reimagines ancient weaving techniques with natural dyes and hand-built ceramics, incorporating formal and thematic references inspired by traditional Japanese material culture and religious customs. For Saito, who was raised in a wafu-kaoku (Japanese architectural style) house in the centuries-old town of Mishima at the base of the Izu peninsula, cultural rituals possess profound meanings. A twisted rope (shimenawa), often seen at shrines or Shinto altars in the home (kamidana), especially holds a sacred significance. It is a symbolic barrier, preventing impurities or negative influences from entering a space. Saito has found the structure of the rope, as well as its intention, deeply resonant with her interests in themes of resilience and preservation.
At her practice’s core is backstrap weaving, one of the earliest weaving techniques, with a rich heritage across Asia and Central and South America. Unlike the treadle loom and other weaving methods, the backstrap loom requires full-body engagement: it is attached to the weaver’s waist with a belt, and the weaver constantly pulls the loom with their body to maintain tension and keep the yarn straight. It does not have wooden frameworks and metal heddles; warp threads are manipulated with string heddles, attached individually.
Japan’s history of backstrap weaving dates to the Yayoi period, c. 300 BCE–300 CE, but is it an endangered technique today, with few practitioners globally. In her 10-year practice, Saito has sought out research projects and artist residencies in countries where active weavers remain, including programs with masters in Peru and Guatemala. In her 2024–25 Artist Studios residency at the Museum of Art and Design in New York, Saito strengthened her work in ceramics, a newer exploration in her practice. Each hand-built piece allows for weavings to be incorporated throughout, exploring connection between mediums as well as cultures. Learn more about Saito’s work at terumisaito.com.
The Museum Shop will display and make available for sale a number of Saito’s large-scale works from 2021–24, four smaller woven works created especially for the Museum, and ceramic works with woven elements.
The works are available to purchase from The Noguchi Museum Shop. For pricing and availability, inquire at shop@noguchi.org.
Visit the Shop
The Shop is open during Museum hours, Wednesdays–Sundays, 11 am–5:45 pm: noguchi.org/visit. Guests who are only visiting the Shop may visit at any time during open hours without a reservation.
