idus announced on September 10 that it is launching a traditional craft collaboration project with the Nexon Foundation titled 'Wind of Thirty, Continuing Tradition' to celebrate the 30th anniversary of 'The Kingdom of the Winds.'
This project was prepared in connection with the Nexon Foundation's emerging artist support initiative, 'Borderless Craft Edition - Wind of Thirty, Continuing Tradition.' Inspired by five Borderless artworks created by emerging artists from Korea National University of Cultural Heritage for the exhibition, idus will present approximately 19 works reinterpreting traditional materials and patterns alongside 15 artists.
The items include daily lifestyle products such as mother-of-pearl passport cases, Four Guardian Beasts clicker keychains, traditional-pattern wooden coasters, traditional cloud keycaps, squirrel-embroidered AirPods cases, rabbit-embroidered bokjori (fortune pouch) bags, and traditional White Tiger incense holders.
The collaborative works are available online and can also be viewed at an offline exhibition held at Gyejodang Hall in Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul, from September 9 to 21. A portion of sales proceeds will be donated to support the ongoing creative activities of emerging artists at Korea National University of Cultural Heritage.
idus provided artwork development consulting, marketing planning, and collaboration coordination between artists and Nexon for participating creators. The Nexon Foundation supported the project with prototype reviews, feedback on packaging production, and advisory support regarding 'The Kingdom of the Winds' intellectual property (IP).
Backpacker Business Development Manager Si-eun Koo said, "We planned these products so that traditional crafts could be reinterpreted with a modern sensibility, allowing more people to experience them naturally in their daily lives." She added, "We hope this serves as an opportunity for talented handmade creators to generate new creative opportunities alongside a major brand, while enabling consumers to experience the charm of traditional craft in a more accessible way."
