The Shell Exhibition : Why Are People Fascinated by Shells?

This exhibition at the Tokyo National Science Museum looked at shells not only as biological specimens, but also as cultural artefacts such as ornaments and jewellery. To express the long relationship between shells and people, real shells and sand collected from beachcombers were used for signage and exhibition surfaces. The spatial design was inspired by the fact that shells are formed by calcium carbonate, and the plaster-like walls and materials subtly reflect this origin. From the phylogenetic tree to the chapter signs, each element was designed as a symbol of the human-shell connection, turning the entire space into a narrative medium.

Innovation：
The project began with the fundamental question: ‘Why Are People Fascinated by Shells? Inspired by ancient shell mounds and the soft trajectories of sandy beaches, the spatial composition integrates chapter signage made with ethically collected shells—blending narrative depth with material authenticity. Scientific insight and poetic expression converge through the “Shell Tales,” connecting intellect and emotion throughout the experience. The exhibition invites visitors to perceive multilayered relationships between people and shells, humans and nature, past and present. Through conscious material choices and waste reduction, the design suggests a new direction for exhibitions—where culture, environment, and sensory engagement intersect.

Creativity:
In addition to scientific content, the exhibition integrated poetic and cultural elements. Short texts titled “Shell Tales”—a wordplay combining “kai” (shell) and “kaisetsu” (explanation)—were placed throughout the space. These texts encouraged visitors to reflect not only visually but emotionally and linguistically on the relationship between humans and shells.
Shells used for chapter signs were ethically collected with researchers, embedding narrative-rich materials into the space and creating a layered, immersive experience.

Functionality:
Chapter signs and Shell Tales functioned as narrative tools guiding visitors through text, material, and layout—allowing for intuitive understanding without explicit instructions.
At the center, a taxonomy fixture shaped like a finger-drawn path in sand served as both a sculptural focus and a unifying element, reinforcing the exhibition’s conceptual clarity.

Environmental and Social Impact:
Sustainability was a guiding principle throughout the project.
All shells were ethically sourced via beachcombing in collaboration with researchers, minimizing environmental impact. To reduce construction waste, leased panels were used; fixtures were made of recyclable plywood, assembled without adhesives using screws and tackers—facilitating future reuse.
This sustainable approach in both material and message not only embodied ecological responsibility, but also prompted visitors to emotionally engage with themes of biodiversity and coexistence.