Searching for an artful book in Nakameguro at the used bookstore, "dessin."
I used a street parking space along Yamate-dori Avenue and decided to take a little stroll around Nakameguro. Actually, there are plenty of parking spaces along the Meguro River and toward the Ebisu area, making Nakameguro a town that’s easy to visit by car.
After parking the car, I walked a short distance toward the station to reach the used bookstore, "dessin."
Inside the small shop, a vast array of books that spark creativity—from domestic and foreign picture books to art books and photo collections—are lined up! It’s exciting, feeling as if I’ve snuck a peek into an artist’s private bookshelf.
Among them are some rare finds you don't often see, reflecting the owner's discerning taste.
The sight of the large wooden bookshelf covering the wall is particularly breathtaking. It houses an untold number of books—more than you could possibly finish looking through in a day—all sitting quietly, waiting to be picked up.
Whether the books are slotted into the shelves or displayed with their covers facing out, every single one of them is appealing. As I stop at every step to gaze at the shelves, it feels as though the books and I are locking eyes.
This place is full of the ideas I need right now.
New encounters every time you visit. Don't forget to check out the gallery on the 2nd floor
After looking through the used books, I realized there was a second floor. The second floor is a gallery space that hosts artist exhibitions, pop-ups, and more.
On this day, a solo exhibition titled "Fragments of Life" by artist Ryo Ishikawa was being held (now finished). Although it is a white-cube space, soft natural light streams in from the windows. Combined with the artwork, it created a space that felt warm and human.
They host various events irregularly, so I definitely want to visit again! I enjoyed the artwork to my heart's content, then headed down the stairs as if returning to the real world, and left the shop.
"Me time" made possible by driving. Extend the afterglow of "dessin" in your car
A luxurious time spent quietly introspecting while observing used books and artworks. Returning to the car filled with a sense of fulfillment, holding the used book I found, I’m able to get away from the bustle around the station and soak in the afterglow all to myself.
Walking around town with friends is fun, but sometimes it’s nice to drive out alone and spend a day like this. I have a feeling tomorrow will be just a little more creative.
