SAMBA-M concieved by its creator the world renowned Shiro Kuramata was first unveiled in 1988 as part of the groundbreaking exhibition IN-SPIRATION, which toured major cultural hubs, including Tokyo, Paris, and Milan. This exhibition brought together over 20 innovative young creators from Japan and abroad, challenging conventional notions of lighting design. Among the illustrious participants were Ron Arad and Zaha Hadid, whose works stood alongside those of other trailblazing talents.
Kuramata not only supervised the exhibition but also took charge of the venue configuration and showcased his iconic creation, “SAMBA-M.” At the opening party, Kuramata delighted and astonished attendees by pouring champagne into SAMBA-M and illuminating it in a vivid red, turning it into a mesmerizing centerpiece.
In 2021, more than 30 years after Kuramata's passing, Gallery Tamura Joe, in collaboration with the Kuramata Design Office, initiated the ambitious project to reissue SAMBA-M. Using existing drawings and a preserved original, Ambientec modernized the design, transforming it into a contemporary masterpiece.
The reimagined SAMBA-M now features double-walled glass construction, is waterproof, cordless, and rechargeable, powered by a long-lasting lithium-ion battery, ensuring its legacy continues with a modern edge.
