An installation by Diogo Machado (ADD FUEL) using Portugal’s traditional decorative tiles, azulejos, titled “A JANELA (The Window)”, will be on permanent display at the INAX Live Museum in Aichi starting November 28.
Originally commissioned by the Portuguese Tourism Board for outdoor display at the Portugal Pavilion of the 2025 World Expo Japan (Osaka-Kansai Expo), the work embodies the Expo’s focus on sustainable operation and efficient resource use. After seeking a permanent home for the piece, the Tourism Board offered it to the INAX Live Museum, known as the “Tile Museum of the World,” where it will now remain as a lasting exhibition.
View of the Portuguese Pavilion at Expo ’70 Osaka, Japan ©EXPANDINGROOTS
The donated installation “A JANELA (The Window)” was created by Portuguese contemporary artist Diogo Machado (ADD FUEL). In developing the work, Machado researched Japanese culture and focused on traditional motifs such as Seigaiha (blue ocean waves), clouds, Genjiguruma (carriage wheels), Hanabishi (floral diamonds), dragons, torii gates, and tomoe patterns.
He respectfully reinterpreted these motifs and fused them with Portugal’s decorative tile culture, creating a piece that embodies a dialogue between the two nations. The open window motif serves as a symbolic “window” connecting Portugal and Japan. This installation marks Machado’s first permanent exhibition in Japan.
Production of hand-painted tiles by the long-established tile manufacturer Viuva Lamego ©EXPANDINGROOTS
Detail of azulejos covering the work ©EXPANDINGROOTS
Artwork Information – “A JANELA” by Diogo Machado (ADD FUEL)
Artist: Diogo Machado (ADD FUEL)
Year: 2025
Dimensions: W182 × D63 × H244 cm
Materials: Tiles (552 pieces), aluminum frame, stainless steel
Tile Manufacturer: Viúva Lamego
First Exhibition: 2025 World Expo Japan, Portugal Pavilion
Donor: Portuguese Tourism Board
Public Display: From Friday, November 28, 2025
Location: INAX Live Museum, Main Approach (Parking Lot 2)
URL: https://livingculture.lixil.com/ilm/see/spot/#spot-section01
INAX Live Museum
The INAX Live Museum, established by LIXIL in Tokoname, Aichi, is a cultural facility centered on ceramic technology. The museum comprises seven interactive venues:
Kiln Plaza & Reference Hall
World Tile Museum*
Toilet Culture Hall
Origins of Architectural Ceramics Hall
Soil & Mud Hall
Tōraku Workshop
Pottery Workshop
The museum showcases the history, culture, and beauty of ceramics through exhibitions, workshops, and hands-on experiences.
*The World Tile Museum houses over 7,000 decorative tiles from ancient times to the modern era, preserving the history and culture of tiles while sharing their artistic and cultural appeal through exhibitions.
AloJapan.com